EP3747542A1 - Transfer system for samples, in particular samples to be analysed - Google Patents
Transfer system for samples, in particular samples to be analysed Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3747542A1 EP3747542A1 EP19179090.6A EP19179090A EP3747542A1 EP 3747542 A1 EP3747542 A1 EP 3747542A1 EP 19179090 A EP19179090 A EP 19179090A EP 3747542 A1 EP3747542 A1 EP 3747542A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- sample
- carrier
- preparation device
- collection
- receiving area
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 title description 5
- 239000000523 sample Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 325
- 238000002360 preparation method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 53
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 36
- 210000004027 cell Anatomy 0.000 claims description 29
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 26
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 claims description 23
- 210000004369 blood Anatomy 0.000 claims description 14
- 239000008280 blood Substances 0.000 claims description 14
- 239000003153 chemical reaction reagent Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000000969 carrier Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000000306 component Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000012503 blood component Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 210000002381 plasma Anatomy 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000005406 washing Methods 0.000 description 11
- 238000010241 blood sampling Methods 0.000 description 9
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 5
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000032258 transport Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000012876 carrier material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000010408 film Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000011010 flushing procedure Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000010410 layer Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 2
- 210000002700 urine Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 239000002250 absorbent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002745 absorbent Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012790 adhesive layer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003146 anticoagulant agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229940127219 anticoagulant drug Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 239000013039 cover film Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000006735 deficit Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000001035 drying Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 description 1
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- 238000001746 injection moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012432 intermediate storage Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000002985 plastic film Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920006255 plastic film Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920003229 poly(methyl methacrylate) Polymers 0.000 description 1
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Images
Classifications
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- 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
- B01L3/5027—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures by integrated microfluidic structures, i.e. dimensions of channels and chambers are such that surface tension forces are important, e.g. lab-on-a-chip
- B01L3/502715—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures by integrated microfluidic structures, i.e. dimensions of channels and chambers are such that surface tension forces are important, e.g. lab-on-a-chip characterised by interfacing components, e.g. fluidic, electrical, optical or mechanical interfaces
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61J—CONTAINERS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL PURPOSES; DEVICES OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR BRINGING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS INTO PARTICULAR PHYSICAL OR ADMINISTERING FORMS; DEVICES FOR ADMINISTERING FOOD OR MEDICINES ORALLY; BABY COMFORTERS; DEVICES FOR RECEIVING SPITTLE
- A61J1/00—Containers specially adapted for medical or pharmaceutical purposes
- A61J1/05—Containers specially adapted for medical or pharmaceutical purposes for collecting, storing or administering blood, plasma or medical fluids ; Infusion or perfusion containers
-
- 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
- B01L2200/02—Adapting objects or devices to another
- B01L2200/026—Fluid interfacing between devices or objects, e.g. connectors, inlet details
- B01L2200/027—Fluid interfacing between devices or objects, e.g. connectors, inlet details for microfluidic devices
-
- 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
- B01L2200/06—Fluid handling related problems
- B01L2200/0605—Metering of fluids
-
- 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
- B01L2200/06—Fluid handling related problems
- B01L2200/0689—Sealing
-
- 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
- B01L2300/042—Caps; Plugs
-
- 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
- B01L2300/046—Function or devices integrated in the closure
-
- 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
- B01L2300/06—Auxiliary integrated devices, integrated components
- B01L2300/0681—Filter
-
- 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
- B01L2300/16—Surface properties and coatings
- B01L2300/161—Control and use of surface tension forces, e.g. hydrophobic, hydrophilic
-
- 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
- B01L2400/04—Moving fluids with specific forces or mechanical means
- B01L2400/0403—Moving fluids with specific forces or mechanical means specific forces
- B01L2400/0406—Moving fluids with specific forces or mechanical means specific forces capillary forces
-
- 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
- B01L3/5027—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures by integrated microfluidic structures, i.e. dimensions of channels and chambers are such that surface tension forces are important, e.g. lab-on-a-chip
- B01L3/502707—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures by integrated microfluidic structures, i.e. dimensions of channels and chambers are such that surface tension forces are important, e.g. lab-on-a-chip characterised by the manufacture of the container or its components
Definitions
- the invention relates to a system for transferring a sample from a sample collection or preparation device to a microfluidic processing device, in particular an analysis device, with a sample carrier that removes the sample from the sample collection or preparation device and can be transported to the processing device.
- sample carriers of this known system can be connected to the sample processing device for introducing a sample into the sample processing device forming a flow cell, the sample carrier connected to the processing device then forming an integral part of the flow cell, which fluid-tightly closes a space within the flow cell receiving the sample.
- the transfer of the sample from the sample collection or preparation device to the sample carrier requires a certain amount of effort.
- the invention is based on the object of creating a new transfer system of the type mentioned in the introduction, in which the transfer of the samples from the sample collection or preparation device to the sample carrier is facilitated.
- the system according to the invention which achieves this object is characterized in that the sample carrier with the sample collection or preparation device connectable and detachable with automatic removal of the sample from the sample collection or preparation device.
- the sample carrier when the sample carrier is detached from the sample collection or preparation device, the sample is automatically taken by the sample carrier.
- a precisely measured amount of sample is taken automatically.
- the sample is preferably a liquid sample, with a sample receiving area of the sample carrier connected to the sample collection or preparation device being wettable with sample liquid.
- the sample carrier connected to the sample collection or preparation device forms a functional component of the sample collection or preparation device.
- the sample carrier connected to the sample collection or preparation device closes off in particular a container space of the sample collection or preparation device that receives sample material during the sample collection or preparation.
- a sample receiving area of the sample carrier connected to the sample collection or preparation device adjoins a container space for receiving sample material, which is comprised by the sample collection or preparation device. Sample material collected in the container space can thus come into contact with the sample carrier and adhere to the sample receiving area of the sample carrier.
- the sample is preferably held at least partially exposed in the sample receiving area of the sample carrier by adhesive, in particular capillary forces, the holding forces meeting the requirements resulting from the transport of the sample carrier.
- sample carrier can also be connectable to the sample processing device with automatic introduction of the sample into the sample processing device.
- the sample carrier for connection to the sample collection or preparation device or sample processing device with a plug section in particular a conical plug section, can be inserted into an opening of the sample collection or preparation device or sample processing device, preferably in a fluid-tight manner.
- the sample receiving area is expediently arranged on an end face of this plug section and preferably extends as a recess from this end face into the plug section.
- Such a design of the sample receiving area advantageously leads to sufficiently large capillary forces, it being possible for these forces to be increased by making the receiving area hydrophilic.
- Surfaces adjoining the receiving area can be hydrophobized in order to sharply delimit the sample receiving area and thus precisely measure the amount of sample.
- Substances can advantageously adhere to at least part of the surface of the sample receiving area, e.g. a dried reagent that interacts with the sample, in particular an anticoagulant in the case of blood as the sample material.
- a grip section for handling, in particular manual handling, of the sample carrier expediently extends from the other end face of the plug section.
- the opening receiving the plug section opens into a container space of the sample collection or preparation device or the sample processing device.
- the sample collection or preparation device is a blood collection device.
- the device for collecting or providing samples can, however, also essentially comprise only one receptacle, for example for receiving urine.
- the sample collection or preparation device and the sample processing device are formed by a single flow cell, the flow cell being at one point e.g. preprocessed sample material is removed and through the sample carrier e.g. is supplied to another area of the flow cell as the sample to be processed.
- the sample collection or supply device may contain a blood component, e.g. solid blood components, retaining filter element for obtaining a blood plasma sample.
- a blood component e.g. solid blood components, retaining filter element for obtaining a blood plasma sample.
- the sample receiving area of the sample carrier can have a porous membrane which sucks in the sample.
- the aspirated sample can then in the processing device z. B. fully or partially released again by washing or rinsing with a washing or rinsing liquid.
- the sample remains in the membrane and dries there in order, if necessary, to be redissolved and analyzed after intermediate storage or transport.
- it can be advantageous to functionalize the membrane by applying reagents to the membrane before the sample is sucked in, in order to prevent or minimize impairment of the sample by the drying process.
- the membrane can also be functionalized in such a way that reagents used for this purpose, which may be applied locally dissolved, react directly with the sample and e.g. Identify one or more components of the sample through a color change and make them visible.
- the sample carrier itself takes on a processing function.
- a sample processing device in the form of a flow cell, in which the receiving area of the sample carrier is brought into connection with the sample with a channel and the sample can be stored with the a washing liquid is flushed out, a sample processing device can also be designed merely as an open reagent vessel or as a membrane.
- the sample can be brought into contact with a washing liquid located in the reaction vessel and by moving the sample carrier immersed in the washing liquid with the sample receiving area Wash out in order to then be mixed with the washing liquid further processed.
- the sample is further processed or stored with the aid of a sample processing device formed by the membrane itself, which takes up the sample from the sample receiving area of the sample carrier by capillary action.
- the device arrangement shown comprises a microfluidic sample processing device 1 in the form of a flow cell, a sample carrier 2 and a sample collection or preparation device 3, in the example shown a device for taking blood from the human body.
- a liquid sample 4 can be transferred from the sample collection or preparation device 3 to the sample processing device 1 and introduced into it.
- the sample carrier 2 is preferably made in one piece, for example from PMMA, PC, COC, COP, PP or PE by injection molding.
- the sample carrier 2 has a partially conical (e.g. 6% slope according to LUER standard) plug section 6, from one end of which a grip section 7 extends for handling the sample carrier, and on the other end of which there is a receiving area 8 for the liquid sample 4 is located.
- the receiving area forms a groove in which the liquid sample 4 is held by capillary forces.
- the sample collection and preparation device or blood collection device 3 has a base plate 9, which can be placed on the upper arm, for example, for taking blood, with an adhesive layer 16 and with through openings 10.
- a projection 11 extends from the base plate 9 and, together with the base plate 9, forms a sample collection and storage space 12 into which the through openings 10 open.
- a flexible end section of the attachment 11 comprises a push button 13 with embedded needle pins 14 which, when the push button 13 is actuated, penetrate through the openings 10 into the skin of the blood donor.
- Blood sampling devices of this type go, for example, from the US 20170172481 A1 and US 20130211289 A1 emerged.
- a conical through opening 15 for receiving the plug section 6 of a sample carrier 2 also opens into the collecting and storage space 12.
- the sample processing device or flow cell 1 which in the example shown is plate-shaped from a substrate 17 and channels and chambers in the substrate covering film 18, has a partially conical opening 19 for receiving the plug section 6 of a sample carrier 2.
- a channel 20 opens into the opening 19, which is part of the channel and chamber system of the flow cell 1 and forms both an inflow and an outflow to the opening 19.
- the groove-shaped receiving area 8 can be aligned with the channel, with whose cross-section it is partially congruent.
- the plug section 6 can be held in the through opening 15 by clamping force, but the clamping force is on the other hand so low that the sample carrier 2 can be easily detached from the blood sampling device 3.
- the sample quantity precisely measured in this way can now be transferred to the flow cell 1 by inserting the sample carrier 2 transported to the location of the flow cell into the opening 19 of the flow cell and aligning the groove-shaped receiving area 8 with the channel 20, possibly by rotating the sample carrier .
- the liquid sample 4 can then be transported further within the flow cell 1 by rinsing it out and processed, in particular analyzed.
- a sample container space that is to say the collection and storage space 12
- a sample collection or preparation device 3 which is essentially exhausted in a container space 21 which is used, for example, to take up urine as sample material 22.
- the sample collection or preparation device comprises a vessel part 23 and a lid 24 which closes the vessel part 23 in a fluid-tight manner.
- the lid 24 has a conical through opening 25 into which a sample carrier 2 with a partially conical plug section 6 can be inserted in a fluid-tight manner.
- the sample container space 21 is used in accordance with FIG Figure 2b eg rotated by about 90 °, so that a sample receiving area 8 of the sample carrier 2, which is designed as a groove, is wetted with liquid sample material.
- the elongated storage container space 21 shown for receiving sample material 22 is formed by a vessel part 23 and a cover part 24.
- a vessel part 23 In the cover part there is a conical through opening 25 for receiving one of the sample carriers from Fig. 1 and 2 corresponding sample carrier 2 is formed.
- the sample container space 21 In order to take a metered amount of sample, the sample container space 21 is temporarily rotated by 180 °.
- the vessel part 23 can be used, for example, as a collecting container for a blood collection device or as a reaction vessel for one or more process steps of a sample analysis.
- Fig. 4 shows a sample container space 26 which is part of a flow cell 27 with a substrate 28 and a cover film 29.
- the sample container space 26 is in communication with at least one channel 30, which forms part of the channel and chamber system of the flow cell 27.
- the sample container space 26 can contain sample material preprocessed by the flow cell 27, of which one sample passes through a sample carrier 2 that can be coupled to the sample container space 26 into another, an opening according to FIG Fig. 1d having area of the flow cell 27 is transferable.
- a sample container space is formed only by a channel 31 within a flow cell 32.
- An attachment 33 on a substrate 34 of the flow cell 32 has a conical through opening 35 for receiving a sample carrier 2, the sample receiving area 8 of which can come into contact with the liquid flowing through the channel 31.
- a sample could be transferred to a different area of flow cell 32 (or to a different flow cell).
- Fig. 6 shows an embodiment with a blood sampling device according to Fig. 1 , however, a cap-shaped sleeve part 36 with an outer and an inner cone is inserted in the conical through opening.
- the sleeve part 36 which can be firmly connected to the blood sampling device, has a filter element 37 on the front side in the form of a porous glass or plastic fiber membrane, which is expediently welded to the rest of the sleeve part. That in contact with collected blood
- the incoming filter element 37 retains solid blood components so that the receiving area 8 of a carrier element 2 is only filled with blood plasma by capillary force, which can be fed to a flow cell as a sample to be analyzed.
- a filter membrane 46 retaining solid blood components is connected to the blood sampling device, in particular welded.
- Fig. 8 forms a sample carrier 2 'with a partially conical plug section 8' together with a connecting piece 38, which has an inner cone on opposite sides, and a filter element 39, a device for obtaining a fluid sample to be fed to a sample carrier 2.
- the carrier 2 ′ contains a quantity of blood 4 that can be fed to the carrier element 2 in a filtered manner, the filter element 39 retaining solid components of the blood so that the sample carrier 2 receives a blood plasma sample 4 in its sample receiving area.
- Sample carriers 2 used in a matching manner with a sample receiving area 8 formed by a single groove could also be used, for example, as in FIG Fig. 9 be designed and for example have a sample receiving area 8 formed by two intersecting grooves.
- a grip area 7 of the sample carrier from, which adjoins a conical plug section 6 via a step 41 Fig. 9 is provided with a profile 42 that promotes grip.
- a nose section 49 extends radially from the grip area 7, which on the one hand forms a lever that facilitates rotation of the sample carrier in a coupled state and also allows the rotational position of the sample carrier to be determined and thus an alignment of its receiving area 8 with a channel of a processing device.
- the grip area could also be designed as a rotary knob.
- Fig. 10 shows a large number of possibilities for the geometric configuration of the sample receiving area of a sample carrier.
- Fig. 10 only the conical sealing area of a sample carrier is shown without handle attachments or the like.
- the sample receiving area is formed by differently shaped depressions in a flat end face of the sample carrier, in such a way that capillary forces holding the sample on the receiving area are effective.
- the sample can easily be rinsed out of the sample receiving areas, which are open on one side and are optionally hydrophilized.
- FIG. 10e In the embodiment of Figure 10e are channel-shaped depressions, like those of the sample holder Figure 10d has, covered by a plastic film.
- the surfaces of the covered channels of the two-piece sample carrier can be completely or partially hydrophilized.
- Fig. 10f shows a further two-part embodiment with a through hole forming the sample receiving area and a membrane closing the through hole at one end. Air can escape through the membrane when the sample receiving area is filled, while the membrane is impermeable to the sample.
- the narrow, capillary-fillable through hole the diameter of which is between 0.1 and 2 mm, preferably 0.2 and 0.5 mm, allows very precise measurements of a sample.
- the sample receiving area can be removed from the through hole within a flow cell by applying pneumatic or hydraulic pressure.
- Fig. 10g differs from the preceding exemplary embodiments in that it has a rounded end face into which a cross-slot-shaped receiving area is sunk.
- the rounding results in a higher dimensional accuracy, in which less sample material sticks to it.
- Fig. 10f shows a further two-part embodiment in which the sample receiving area is formed by a filter element attached to an end face of the sample carrier. Upon contact, the filter element sucks in the sample, whereby its volume and porosity are decisive for the amount of sample taken.
- Fig. 11 shows exemplary embodiments for two-part sample carriers with two conical receiving areas for connection to a flow cell and a sample collection or supply device.
- a through-hole in one of the connection areas a sample receiving area which can be filled with capillaries, which adjoins at one end a rinsing channel covered by a film and whose capillary filling with a sample automatically ends at the rinsing channel.
- the flushing channel is in communication with a through hole in the other connection area. Via the connection areas that are simultaneously connected to a flow cell, the receiving area can be emptied by applying pneumatic or hydraulic pressure.
- the embodiment of Figure 11b differs from the embodiment of FIG Figure 11a by a sample receiving area that tapers towards the inlet opening.
- the taper increases the reproducibility of the amount of sample taken.
- the diameter of the sample receiving area at the entrance is less than 0.1 to 0.3 mm at the exit 0.5 to 2 mm, the length of the through hole being typically 2 to 10 mm. It goes without saying that the capacity of the sample carrier depends on the dimensions of the sample area and that different amounts of sample can be introduced into a flow cell simply by exchanging the sample carrier. Due to the different geometry of the through holes in the receiving areas, it can be seen which of the two through holes serves as the receiving area.
- the end facing the flushing channel is narrowed in the flow cross-section.
- This narrowing acts as a stop for the capillary filling of the sample receiving area, which is conducive to reproducible dimensioning of samples.
- Typical constrictions of the flow cross-section are between 10 and 50%, the length of the constriction area in the direction of flow being between 0.05 and 0.2 mm.
- the sample carrier 2 shown transports a sample 4 from a sample collection or preparation device (not shown) to a sample processing device 1.
- the sample processing device 1 is merely a device shown in FIG Fig. 12 Microtiter plate shown in detail with, for example, 96 reaction vessels 50, each containing washing liquid 51.
- the sample 4 is flushed out of the sample receiving area of the sample carrier.
- the mixture of sample and washing liquid remaining in the reaction vessel 50 can then be processed further.
- Fig. 13 shows a further sample processing device 1 in the form of a single reaction vessel 52, which can be connected to a sample carrier 2 in a fluid-tight manner.
- a sample 4 transported through the sample carrier 2 can be washed out of the receiving area of the sample carrier 2 by, for example, manually shaking the reaction vessel 52 containing washing liquid 51 and the mixture of sample and washing liquid can be processed further after removal from the reaction vessel.
- Fig. 14 shows a sample carrier 2 with a sample 4 transported by the sample carrier 2, which is fed to a processing device 1.
- the processing device 1 comprises two carrier material layers 53, 53 ', between which an absorbent porous membrane 54 is introduced. At least one of the carrier material layers 53, 53 ′ is perforated in the sample input areas 55.
- the sample carrier 2 is pressed against the membrane 54, the sample 4 comes into contact with the membrane 54 and is sucked in through the membrane 54.
- the suction capacity of the membrane exceeds the capillary force in the sample receiving area of the sample carrier, so that the sample passes into the membrane 54, to be precise completely, in that the receiving capacity of the exposed membrane area is greater than the sample volume.
- the membrane 54 can be provided with dried reagents which interact with the sample. It is also possible that the sample has dried out in the membrane.
- All sample carriers have in common a more or less open amount of liquid sample that is kept accessible for rinsing.
Abstract
Die Erfindung betrifft ein System zur Überführung einer Probe von einer Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) zu einer mikrofluidischen Verarbeitungseinrichtung (1), insbesondere Analyseeinrichtung, vorzugsweise in Form einer Flusszelle, mit einem die Probe (4) von der Probengewinnungs- oderbereitstellungseinrichtung (3) entnehmenden, zu der Verarbeitungseinrichtung (1) transportierbaren Probenträger (2). Erfindungsgemäß ist der Probenträger (2) mit der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) verbindbar und unter automatischer Entnahme der Probe von der Probengewinnungs- oder - bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) lösbar. Vorzugsweise ist der mit der Probengewinnungs- oder-bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) verbundene Probenträger (2) ein funktionaler Bestandteil der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3), insbesondere verschließt der Probenträger (2) einen Behälterraum der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) zur Aufnahme von Probenmaterial.The invention relates to a system for transferring a sample from a sample collection or preparation device (3) to a microfluidic processing device (1), in particular an analysis device, preferably in the form of a flow cell, with a sample (4) from the sample collection or preparation device (3 ) removing sample carrier (2) which can be transported to the processing device (1). According to the invention, the sample carrier (2) can be connected to the sample collection or preparation device (3) and can be detached from the sample collection or preparation device (3) with automatic removal of the sample. The sample carrier (2) connected to the sample acquisition or preparation device (3) is preferably a functional component of the sample acquisition or preparation device (3), in particular the sample carrier (2) closes a container space of the sample acquisition or preparation device (3) Recording of sample material.
Description
Die Erfindung betrifft ein System zur Überführung einer Probe von einer Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung zu einer mikrofluidischen Verarbeitungseinrichtung, insbesondere Analyseeinrichtung, mit einem die Probe von der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung entnehmenden, zu der Verarbeitungseinrichtung transportierbaren Probenträger.The invention relates to a system for transferring a sample from a sample collection or preparation device to a microfluidic processing device, in particular an analysis device, with a sample carrier that removes the sample from the sample collection or preparation device and can be transported to the processing device.
Ein solches System zur Probenübertragung geht z.B. aus der hier einbezogenen
Einen gewissen Aufwand erfordert die Übertragung der Probe von der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung zu dem Probenträger.Such a system for sample transfer is based, for example, on the one included here
The transfer of the sample from the sample collection or preparation device to the sample carrier requires a certain amount of effort.
Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, ein neues Überführungssystem der eingangs erwähnten Art zu schaffen, bei dem die Übertragung der Proben von der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung auf den Probenträger erleichtert ist.The invention is based on the object of creating a new transfer system of the type mentioned in the introduction, in which the transfer of the samples from the sample collection or preparation device to the sample carrier is facilitated.
Das diese Aufgabe lösende System nach der Erfindung ist dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Probenträger mit der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung verbindbar und unter automatischer Entnahme der Probe von der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung lösbar ist.The system according to the invention which achieves this object is characterized in that the sample carrier with the sample collection or preparation device connectable and detachable with automatic removal of the sample from the sample collection or preparation device.
Vorteilhaft erfolgt erfindungsgemäß mit der Ablösung des Probenträgers von der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung automatisch die Probenentnahme durch den Probenträger.
In einer besonders bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung wird dabei automatisch eine genau bemessene Probenmenge entnommen.Advantageously, according to the invention, when the sample carrier is detached from the sample collection or preparation device, the sample is automatically taken by the sample carrier.
In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a precisely measured amount of sample is taken automatically.
Bei der Probe handelt es sich vorzugsweise um eine Flüssigkeitsprobe, wobei ein Probenaufnahmebereich des mit der Probengewinnungs- oder - bereitstellungseinrichtung verbundenen Probenträgers mit Probenflüssigkeit benetzbar ist.The sample is preferably a liquid sample, with a sample receiving area of the sample carrier connected to the sample collection or preparation device being wettable with sample liquid.
In einer weiteren bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung bildet der mit der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung verbundene Probenträger einen funktionalen Bestandteil der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung.In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the sample carrier connected to the sample collection or preparation device forms a functional component of the sample collection or preparation device.
Als funktionaler Bestandteil schließt der mit der Probengewinnungs- oder - bereitstellungseinrichtung verbundene Probenträger insbesondere einen Probenmaterial aufnehmenden Behälterraum der Probengewinnungs- oder - bereitstellungseinrichtung während der Probengewinnung oder -bereitstellung ab.As a functional component, the sample carrier connected to the sample collection or preparation device closes off in particular a container space of the sample collection or preparation device that receives sample material during the sample collection or preparation.
In einer weiteren bevorzugten Ausführungsform der Erfindung grenzt ein Probenaufnahmebereich des mit der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung verbundenen Probenträgers an einen von der Probengewinnungs- oder - bereitstellungseinrichtung umfassten Behälterraum für die Aufnahme von Probenmaterial an. In dem Behälterraum gesammeltes Probenmaterial kann so in Kontakt mit dem Probenträger kommen und an dem Probenaufnahmebereich des Probenträgers anhaften.In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a sample receiving area of the sample carrier connected to the sample collection or preparation device adjoins a container space for receiving sample material, which is comprised by the sample collection or preparation device. Sample material collected in the container space can thus come into contact with the sample carrier and adhere to the sample receiving area of the sample carrier.
Vorzugsweise ist die Probe an dem Probenaufnahmebereich des Probenträgers wenigstens teilweise freiliegend durch Adhäsions-, insbesondere Kapillarkräfte, gehalten, wobei die Haltekräfte den sich durch den Transport des Probenträgers ergebenden Anforderungen genügen.The sample is preferably held at least partially exposed in the sample receiving area of the sample carrier by adhesive, in particular capillary forces, the holding forces meeting the requirements resulting from the transport of the sample carrier.
Es versteht sich, dass der Probenträger ferner unter automatischer Einführung der Probe in die Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung mit der Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung verbindbar sein kann.It goes without saying that the sample carrier can also be connectable to the sample processing device with automatic introduction of the sample into the sample processing device.
Insbesondere ist der Probenträger zur Verbindung mit der Probengewinnungs- oder - bereitstellungseinrichtung bzw. Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung mit einem Pfropfenabschnitt, insbesondere konischen Pfropfenabschnitt, in eine Öffnung der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung bzw. Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung einsetzbar, vorzugsweise fluiddicht.In particular, the sample carrier for connection to the sample collection or preparation device or sample processing device with a plug section, in particular a conical plug section, can be inserted into an opening of the sample collection or preparation device or sample processing device, preferably in a fluid-tight manner.
Zweckmäßig ist der Probenaufnahmebereich auf einer Stirnseite dieses Pfropfenabschnitts angeordnet und erstreckt sich vorzugsweise als Vertiefung von dieser Stirnseite in den Pfropfenabschnitt hinein. Vorteilhaft führt eine solche Ausbildung des Probenaufnahmebereichs zu ausreichend großen Kapillarkräften, wobei diese Kräfte durch Hydrophilisierung des Aufnahmebereichs verstärkt werden können. An den Aufnahmebereich angrenzende Oberflächen können dagegen zur scharfen Begrenzung des Probenaufnahmebereichs und damit genauen Bemessung einer Probenmenge hydrophobiert sein.The sample receiving area is expediently arranged on an end face of this plug section and preferably extends as a recess from this end face into the plug section. Such a design of the sample receiving area advantageously leads to sufficiently large capillary forces, it being possible for these forces to be increased by making the receiving area hydrophilic. Surfaces adjoining the receiving area, on the other hand, can be hydrophobized in order to sharply delimit the sample receiving area and thus precisely measure the amount of sample.
Vorteilhaft können auf wenigstens einem Teil der Oberfläche des Probenaufnahmebereichs Substanzen anhaften, z.B. ein eingetrocknetes, mit der Probe in Wechselwirkung tretendes Reagenz, insbesondere ein Antikoagulans im Fall von Blut als Probenmaterial.Substances can advantageously adhere to at least part of the surface of the sample receiving area, e.g. a dried reagent that interacts with the sample, in particular an anticoagulant in the case of blood as the sample material.
Von der anderen Stirnseite des Pfropfenabschnitts erstreckt sich zweckmäßig ein Griffabschnitt zur Handhabung, insbesondere manuellen Handhabung, des Probenträgers.A grip section for handling, in particular manual handling, of the sample carrier expediently extends from the other end face of the plug section.
Es versteht sich, dass die den Pfropfenabschnitt aufnehmende Öffnung in einen Behälterraum der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung bzw. der Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung mündet.It goes without saying that the opening receiving the plug section opens into a container space of the sample collection or preparation device or the sample processing device.
In einer Ausführungsform handelt es sich bei der Probengewinnungs- oder - bereitstellungseinrichtung um eine Blutentnahmeeinrichtung.In one embodiment, the sample collection or preparation device is a blood collection device.
Die Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung kann jedoch z.B. auch im Wesentlichen nur einen Aufnahmebehälter umfassen, z.B. zur Aufnahme von Urin.The device for collecting or providing samples can, however, also essentially comprise only one receptacle, for example for receiving urine.
In einer weiteren Ausführungsform sind die Probengewinnungs- oder - bereitstellungseinrichtung und die Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung durch eine einzige Flusszelle gebildet, wobei der Flusszelle an einer Stelle z.B. vorverarbeitetes Probenmaterial entnommen und durch den Probenträger z.B. einem anderen Bereich der Flusszelle als zu verarbeitende Probe zugeführt wird.In a further embodiment, the sample collection or preparation device and the sample processing device are formed by a single flow cell, the flow cell being at one point e.g. preprocessed sample material is removed and through the sample carrier e.g. is supplied to another area of the flow cell as the sample to be processed.
Die Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung kann ein Blutbestandteile, z.B. feste Blutbestandteile, zurückhaltendes Filterelement zur Gewinnung einer Blutplasmaprobe umfassen.The sample collection or supply device may contain a blood component, e.g. solid blood components, retaining filter element for obtaining a blood plasma sample.
Der Probenaufnahmebereich des Probenträgers kann eine poröse Membran aufweisen, welche die Probe einsaugt. Die eingesaugte Probe kann dann in der Verarbeitungseinrichtung z. B. durch Auswaschen oder-spülen mit einer Wasch- bzw. Spülflüssigkeit ganz oder teilweise wieder freigesetzt werden. Alternativ verbleibt die Probe in der Membran und trocknet dort ein, um nach einer Zwischenlagerung oder einem Transport gegebenenfalls rückgelöst und analysiert zu werden. Hierbei kann es vorteilhaft sein, die Membran vor dem Einsaugen der Probe durch Aufbringen von Reagenzien zu funktionalisieren, um eine Beeinträchtigung der Probe durch den Trocknungsprozess zu verhindern oder zu minimieren.The sample receiving area of the sample carrier can have a porous membrane which sucks in the sample. The aspirated sample can then in the processing device z. B. fully or partially released again by washing or rinsing with a washing or rinsing liquid. Alternatively, the sample remains in the membrane and dries there in order, if necessary, to be redissolved and analyzed after intermediate storage or transport. In this case, it can be advantageous to functionalize the membrane by applying reagents to the membrane before the sample is sucked in, in order to prevent or minimize impairment of the sample by the drying process.
Ferner kann die Membran auch so funktionalisiert sein, dass dazu verwendete Reagenzien, die ggf. örtlich aufgelöst aufgebracht sind, unmittelbar mit der Probe reagieren und z.B. durch einen Farbumschlag einen Bestandteil oder mehrerer Bestandteile der Probe identifizieren und sichtbar machen. In diesem Fall übernimmt der Probenträger selbst eine Verarbeitungsfunktion.Furthermore, the membrane can also be functionalized in such a way that reagents used for this purpose, which may be applied locally dissolved, react directly with the sample and e.g. Identify one or more components of the sample through a color change and make them visible. In this case, the sample carrier itself takes on a processing function.
Neben einer Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung in Form einer Flusszelle, in der der Aufnahmebereich des Probenträgers mit der Probe mit einem Kanal in Verbindung gebracht und die Probe mit Hilfe z.B. einer Waschflüssigkeit herausgespült wird, kann eine Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung auch lediglich als offenes Reagenzgefäß oder als Membran ausgebildet sein.In addition to a sample processing device in the form of a flow cell, in which the receiving area of the sample carrier is brought into connection with the sample with a channel and the sample can be stored with the a washing liquid is flushed out, a sample processing device can also be designed merely as an open reagent vessel or as a membrane.
In ersterem Fall lässt sich die Probe mit einer sich im Reaktionsgefäß befindenden Waschflüssigkeit in Kontakt bringen und durch Bewegung des mit dem Probenaufnahmebereich in die Waschflüssigkeit eintauchenden Probenträgers auswaschen, um dann mit der Waschflüssigkeit vermischt weiter verarbeitet zu werden.In the first case, the sample can be brought into contact with a washing liquid located in the reaction vessel and by moving the sample carrier immersed in the washing liquid with the sample receiving area Wash out in order to then be mixed with the washing liquid further processed.
In letzterem Fall erfolgt eine Weiterverarbeitung oder Lagerung der Probe mit Hilfe einer durch die Membran selbst gebildeten Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung, welche durch Kapillarwirkung die Probe aus dem Probenaufnahmebereich des Probenträgers aufnimmt.In the latter case, the sample is further processed or stored with the aid of a sample processing device formed by the membrane itself, which takes up the sample from the sample receiving area of the sample carrier by capillary action.
Die Erfindung ist nachfolgend anhand von Ausführungsbeispielen und der beiliegenden, sich auf diese Ausführungsbeispiele beziehenden Zeichnungen weiter erläutert. Es zeigen:
- Fig. 1
- ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiel für ein erfindungsgemäßes Übertragungssystem mit einer Blutentnahmeeinrichtung als Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung,
- Fig. 2 und 3
- im Wesentlichen durch Behälter gebildete Ausführungsbeispiele für Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtungen des erfindungsgemäßen Übertragungssystems,
- Fig. 4 und 5
- durch eine Flusszelle gebildete Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtungen nach der Erfindung,
- Fig. 6 bis 8
- Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtungen nach der Erfindung zur Gewinnung einer Blutplasmaprobe,
- Fig. 9 bis 11
- Ausführungsbeispiele für Probenträger nach der Erfindung, und
- Fig. 12 bis 14
- Ausführungsformen von Probenverarbeitungseinrichtungen.
- Fig. 1
- a first embodiment of a transmission system according to the invention with a blood sampling device as a sample collection or preparation device,
- Figs. 2 and 3
- Embodiments essentially formed by containers for sample collection or preparation devices of the transmission system according to the invention,
- Figures 4 and 5
- sample collection or preparation devices formed by a flow cell according to the invention,
- Figures 6 to 8
- Sample collection or preparation devices according to the invention for obtaining a blood plasma sample,
- Figs. 9-11
- Embodiments for sample carriers according to the invention, and
- Figures 12-14
- Embodiments of sample processing devices.
Eine in
Der Probenträger 2 weist in dem gezeigten Beispiel einen teilweise konischen (mit z.B. 6 % Steigung gemäß LUER-Stanard) Pfropfenabschnitt 6 auf, von dessen einer Stirnseite sich ein Griffabschnitt 7 zur Handhabung des Probenträgers erstreckt, und an dessen andere Stirnseite sich ein Aufnahmebereich 8 für die Flüssigkeitsprobe 4 befindet. Den Aufnahmebereich bildet eine Rille, in der die Flüssigkeitsprobe 4 durch Kapillarkräfte gehalten ist.In the example shown, the
Die Probengewinnungs- und -bereitstellungseinrichtung bzw. Blutentnahmeeinrichtung 3 weist eine zur Blutentnahme z.B. am Oberarm anlegbare Sockelplatte 9 mit einer Klebeschicht 16 und mit Durchgangsöffnungen 10 auf. Von der Sockelplatte 9 erstreckt sich ein Ansatz 11, der mit der Sockelplatte 9 einen Probensammel- und Vorratsraum 12 bildet, in welchen die Durchgangsöffnungen 10 münden. Ein flexibler Endabschnitt des Ansatzes 11 umfasst einen Druckknopf 13 mit eingebetteten Nadelstiften 14, die bei Betätigung des Druckknopfes 13 durch die Öffnungen 10 hindurch in die Haut der blutabgebenden Person eindringen. Blutentnahmeeinrichtungen solcher Art (ohne den Probenträger 2) gehen z.B. aus der
In den Sammel- und Vorratsraum 12 mündet ferner eine konische Durchgangsöffnung 15 zur Aufnahme des Pfropfenabschnitts 6 eines Probenträgers 2 ein.A conical through opening 15 for receiving the
Die Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung bzw. Flusszelle 1, die in dem gezeigten Beispiel plattenförmig aus einem Substrat 17 und Kanäle und Kammern im Substrat abdeckenden Folie 18 gebildet ist, weist eine teilweise konische Öffnung 19 zur Aufnahme des Pfropfenabschnitts 6 eines Probenträgers 2 auf. Wie sich
Während einer Blutentnahme tritt nach Betätigung des Druckknopfes 13 durch die Öffnungen 10 hindurch Blut in den Sammel- und Vorratsraum 12 ein. Der Probenträger 2 verschließt währenddessen fluiddicht die Öffnung 15, wobei die Blutentnahmeeinrichtung 3 derart ausgerichtet ist, dass sich der Probenträger 2 vertikal mit dem Aufnahmebereich 8 nach oben erstreckt. So erreicht gesammeltes Blut den rillenförmigen Aufnahmebereich 8, der sich dann unter der Wirkung von Kapillarkräften mit der Flüssigkeitsprobe 4 füllt.During a blood sample, after pressing the
Es versteht sich, dass der Pfropfenabschnitt 6 durch Klemmkraft in der Durchgangsöffnung 15 festgehalten werden kann, wobei die Klemmkraft jedoch andererseits so gering ist, dass der Probenträger 2 von der Blutentnahmeeinrichtung 3 bequem gelöst werden kann.It goes without saying that the
Bei Lösung des Probenträgers 2 von der Blutentnahmeeinrichtung 3 verbleibt an dem Probenträger 2 nur die durch die Rille 4 bemessene Flüssigkeitsmenge. Durch Oberflächenbehandlung des Rillenbereichs und der angrenzenden Bereiche (Hydrophilisierung, Hydrophobierung) kann dafür gesorgt werden, dass eine scharfe Trennung zwischen den benetzbaren Bereichen und den angrenzenden Bereichen hergestellt ist, so dass außerhalb des Aufnahmebereichs 8 keine oder nur wenig Probenflüssigkeit an dem Probenträger verbleibt.When the
Die auf diese Weise genau bemessene Probenmenge kann nun in die Flusszelle 1 überführt werden, indem der an den Ort der Flusszelle transportierte Probenträger 2 in die Öffnung 19 der Flusszelle eingesetzt und der rillenförmige Aufnahmebereich 8 zu dem Kanal 20 ggf. unter Drehung des Probenträgers ausgerichtet wird.The sample quantity precisely measured in this way can now be transferred to the
Durch Ausspülen kann dann die Flüssigkeitsprobe 4 innerhalb der Flusszelle 1 weitertransportiert und verarbeitet, insbesondere analysiert werden.The
Während bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel von
Zur Entnahme einer bestimmten Probenmenge wird der Probenbehälterraum 21 gemäß
Wie
Ein in
Der Probenbehälterraum 26 kann z.B. durch die Flusszelle 27 vorverarbeitetes Probenmaterial enthalten, von dem eine Probe durch einen an den Probenbehälterraum 26 koppelbaren Probenträger 2 in einen anderen, eine Öffnung gemäß
Bei einem in
In einer vereinfachten Ausführungsform gemäß
In einem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß
Der in den Ausführungsbeispielen von
Ein sich über eine Abstufung 41 an einen konischen Pfropfenabschnitt 6 anschließender Griffbereich 7 des Probenträgers von
Von dem Griffbereich 7 erstreckt sich radial ein Nasenabschnitt 49, der einerseits einen Hebel bildet, der eine Drehung des Probenträgers in einem angekoppelten Zustand erleichtert und zudem eine Bestimmung der Drehposition des Probenträgers und damit eine Ausrichtung von dessen Aufnahmebereich 8 zu einem Kanal einer Verarbeitungseinrichtung erlaubt.A
Abweichend von dem in
Es versteht sich, dass in
Bei den Ausführungsbeispielen von
In the embodiments of
Bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel von
Das Ausführungsbeispiel von
Gemäß
Das Ausführungsbeispiel von
Bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel von
Ein in
Durch z.B. vibrierende Bewegung des in die Waschflüssigkeit 51 eingetauchten Probenträgers 2 wird die Probe 4 aus dem Probenaufnahmbereich des Probenträgers herausgespült. Die im Reaktionsgefäß 50 verbleibende Mischung aus Probe und Waschflüssigkeit kann dann weiter verarbeitet werden.By e.g. vibrating movement of the
Die Verarbeitungseinrichtung 1 umfasst zwei Trägermateriallagen 53, 53', zwischen denen eine saugfähige poröse Membran 54 eingebracht ist. Wenigstens eine der Trägermateriallagen 53, 53' ist in Probeneingabebereichen 55 gelocht. Beim Andrücken des Probenträgers 2 an die Membran 54 kommt die Probe 4 mit der Membran 54 in Kontakt und wird durch die Membran 54 eingesaugt. Die Saugfähigkeit der Membran übersteigt die Kapillarkraft im Probenaufnahmebereich des Probenträgers, sodass die Probe in die Membran 54 übergeht, und zwar vollständig, indem die Aufnahmekapazität des offenliegenden Membranbereichs größer als das Probenvolumen ist.
Die Membran 54 kann mit eingetrockneten Reagenzien versehen sein, welche mit der Probe in Wechselwirkung treten. Auch ist es möglich, dass die Probe in der Membran eingetrocknet ist.The
The
Allen Probenträgern gemeinsam ist eine mehr oder weniger offene, für eine Ausspülung zugänglich gehaltene Flüssigkeitsprobenmenge.All sample carriers have in common a more or less open amount of liquid sample that is kept accessible for rinsing.
Es versteht sich, dass abweichend von dem vorangehend ausschließlich beschriebenen Verbindungskonus für den Probenträger auch andere Verbindungsmittel in Betracht kommen.It goes without saying that, deviating from the connecting cone exclusively described above, other connecting means can also be considered for the sample carrier.
Claims (15)
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass der Probenträger (2) mit der Probengewinnungs- oder-bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) verbindbar und unter automatischer Entnahme der Probe (4) von der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) lösbar ist.System for transferring a sample (4) from a sample acquisition or preparation device (3) to a microfluidic processing device (1), in particular a flow cell, with a sample (4) from the sample acquisition or preparation device (3) to the Processing device (1) transportable sample carrier (2),
characterized,
that the sample carrier (2) can be connected to the sample collection or preparation device (3) and can be detached from the sample collection or preparation device (3) with automatic removal of the sample (4).
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass die Probe eine Flüssigkeitsprobe (4) ist und ein Probenaufnahmebereich (8) des mit der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) verbundenen Probenträgers (2) mit Probenflüssigkeit benetzbar ist.System according to claim 1,
characterized,
that the sample is a liquid sample (4) and a sample receiving area (8) of the sample carrier (2) connected to the sample collection or preparation device (3) can be wetted with sample liquid.
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass der mit der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) verbundene Probenträger (2) einen funktionalen Bestandteil der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) bildet.System according to claim 1 or 2,
characterized,
that the sample carrier (2) connected to the sample collection or preparation device (3) forms a functional component of the sample collection or preparation device (3).
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass der mit der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) verbundene Probenträger (2) als funktionaler Bestandteil der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) einen Probenmaterial aufnehmenden Behälterraum (12;21,26;31) der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) abschließt.System according to claim 3,
characterized,
that the sample carrier (2) connected to the sample collection or preparation device (3) as a functional component of the sample collection or preparation device (3) has a sample material receiving container space (12; 21,26; 31) of the sample collection or preparation device (3 ) concludes.
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass ein Probenaufnahmebereich (8) des mit der Probengewinnungs- oder - bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) verbundenen Probenträgers (2) an einen von der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) umfassten Behälterraum (12;21 ;26;31) für die Aufnahme von Probenmaterial angrenzt.System according to one of Claims 1 to 4,
characterized,
that a sample receiving area (8) of the sample carrier (2) connected to the sample collection or preparation device (3) is attached to one of the container space (12; 21; 26; 31) encompassed by the sample collection or preparation device (3) for receiving sample material.
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass der Probenträger (2) von der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) unter automatischer Entnahme einer dosierten Probenmenge lösbar ist, vorzugsweise mit einer Dosiergenauigkeit < 10%.System according to one of Claims 1 to 5,
characterized,
that the sample carrier (2) can be detached from the sample acquisition or preparation device (3) with automatic removal of a metered amount of sample, preferably with a metering accuracy of <10%.
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass der Probenträger (2) ferner zur Einführung der Probe in die Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung (1) mit der Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung (1) verbindbar ist.System according to one of Claims 1 to 6,
characterized,
that the sample carrier (2) can also be connected to the sample processing device (1) for introducing the sample into the sample processing device (1).
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass der Probenträger (2) zur Verbindung mit der Probengewinnungs- oder - bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) oder/und der Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung (1) mit einem Pfropfenabschnitt (6), insbesondere konischen Pfropfenabschnitt, in eine Öffnung (15;25;35) der Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) bzw. der Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung (1) einsetzbar ist.System according to claim 7,
characterized,
that the sample carrier (2) for connection to the sample collection or preparation device (3) and / or the sample processing device (1) with a plug section (6), in particular a conical plug section, into an opening (15; 25; 35) of the sample collection or supply device (3) or the sample processing device (1) can be used.
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass der Probenaufnahmebereich (8) auf einer Stirnseite des Pfropfenabschnitts (6) angeordnet ist und sich vorzugsweise von dieser Stirnseite in den Pfropfenabschnitt (6) hinein erstreckt und ggf. der anderen Stirnseite des Pfropfenabschnitts (6) ein Griffbereich (43) zur Handhabung des Probenträgers (2) gebildet ist.System according to claim 8,
characterized,
that the sample receiving area (8) is arranged on one end face of the plug section (6) and preferably extends from this end face into the plug section (6) and, if necessary, the other end face of the plug section (6) has a grip area (43) for handling the sample carrier (2) is formed.
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass die Probe (4) an einem Probenaufnahmebereich (8) des Probenträgers (2) wenigstens teilweise freiliegend durch Adhäsions-, insbesondere Kapillarkräfte, gehalten ist.System according to one of Claims 1 to 9,
characterized,
that the sample (4) is held at least partially exposed in a sample receiving area (8) of the sample carrier (2) by adhesion, in particular capillary forces.
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass die Probe (4) eine Blutprobe ist.System according to one of Claims 1 to 10,
characterized,
that the sample (4) is a blood sample.
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass die Probengewinnungs- oder -bereitstellungseinrichtung (3) ein feste Blutbestandteile zurückhaltendes Filterelement (37;89) zur Gewinnung einer Blutplasmaprobe umfasst.System according to one of Claims 1 to 11,
characterized,
that the sample collection or preparation device (3) comprises a filter element (37; 89) that retains solid blood components for obtaining a blood plasma sample.
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass ein Probenaufnahmebereich (8) des Probenträgers (2) oder ein Eingabebereich (55) der Probenverarbeitungseinrichtung (1) eine poröse Membran (54) aufweist, wobei insbesondere die Probenaufnahmekapazität der Membran größer ist als das durch den Probenträger (2) aufnehmbare Probenvolumen.System according to one of Claims 1 to 12,
characterized,
that a sample receiving area (8) of the sample carrier (2) or an input area (55) of the sample processing device (1) has a porous membrane (54), the sample receiving capacity of the membrane in particular being greater than the sample volume that can be absorbed by the sample carrier (2).
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass zumindest einem Teil der Oberfläche eines Probenaufnahmebereichs (8) des Probenträgers (2) ein Reagenz vorhanden ist, oder mehrere Reagenzien wobei das Reagenz bzw. die Reagenzien mit der aufgenommenen Probe in Wechselwirkung treten.System according to one of Claims 1 to 13,
characterized,
that at least a part of the surface of a sample receiving area (8) of the sample carrier (2) has a reagent, or several reagents, the reagent or reagents interacting with the received sample.
dadurch gekennzeichnet,
dass zur Entnahme mehrerer Proben mehrere Probenträger (2) gleichzeitig oder aufeinanderfolgend mit der Probengewinnungs- oder - bereitstellungseinrichtung verbindbar sind.System according to one of Claims 1 to 14,
characterized,
that in order to take several samples several sample carriers (2) can be connected to the sample collection or preparation device at the same time or in succession.
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP19179090.6A EP3747542A1 (en) | 2019-06-07 | 2019-06-07 | Transfer system for samples, in particular samples to be analysed |
US17/616,004 US20220323954A1 (en) | 2019-06-07 | 2020-05-05 | Transfer system for samples, more particularly samples to be analyzed |
PCT/EP2020/062394 WO2020244864A1 (en) | 2019-06-07 | 2020-05-05 | Transfer system for samples, more particularly samples to be analysed |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP19179090.6A EP3747542A1 (en) | 2019-06-07 | 2019-06-07 | Transfer system for samples, in particular samples to be analysed |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP3747542A1 true EP3747542A1 (en) | 2020-12-09 |
Family
ID=66793880
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP19179090.6A Pending EP3747542A1 (en) | 2019-06-07 | 2019-06-07 | Transfer system for samples, in particular samples to be analysed |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20220323954A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3747542A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2020244864A1 (en) |
Citations (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20040156746A1 (en) * | 2001-05-10 | 2004-08-12 | Larsen Ulrik Darling | Device for sampling small and precise volumes of liquid |
US20130211289A1 (en) | 2012-01-25 | 2013-08-15 | Tasso, Inc. | Handheld Device for Drawing, Collecting, and Analyzing Bodily Fluid |
US20160107157A1 (en) * | 2014-10-16 | 2016-04-21 | The General Hospital Corporation | Specimen Acceptance Devices and Attachable Disposable Assay Cartridges |
EP3108962A1 (en) | 2015-06-22 | 2016-12-28 | Thinxxs Microtechnology Ag | Sample carrier |
US20170172481A1 (en) | 2015-12-21 | 2017-06-22 | Tasso, Inc. | Devices, Systems and Methods for Actuation and Retraction in Fluid Collection |
EP3263215A1 (en) * | 2016-06-30 | 2018-01-03 | ThinXXS Microtechnology AG | Flow cell with reagent storage |
DE102017220525A1 (en) * | 2017-11-17 | 2019-05-23 | Robert Bosch Gmbh | Adapter for sample entry into a microfluidic device |
-
2019
- 2019-06-07 EP EP19179090.6A patent/EP3747542A1/en active Pending
-
2020
- 2020-05-05 US US17/616,004 patent/US20220323954A1/en active Pending
- 2020-05-05 WO PCT/EP2020/062394 patent/WO2020244864A1/en active Application Filing
Patent Citations (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20040156746A1 (en) * | 2001-05-10 | 2004-08-12 | Larsen Ulrik Darling | Device for sampling small and precise volumes of liquid |
US20130211289A1 (en) | 2012-01-25 | 2013-08-15 | Tasso, Inc. | Handheld Device for Drawing, Collecting, and Analyzing Bodily Fluid |
US20160107157A1 (en) * | 2014-10-16 | 2016-04-21 | The General Hospital Corporation | Specimen Acceptance Devices and Attachable Disposable Assay Cartridges |
EP3108962A1 (en) | 2015-06-22 | 2016-12-28 | Thinxxs Microtechnology Ag | Sample carrier |
US20170172481A1 (en) | 2015-12-21 | 2017-06-22 | Tasso, Inc. | Devices, Systems and Methods for Actuation and Retraction in Fluid Collection |
EP3263215A1 (en) * | 2016-06-30 | 2018-01-03 | ThinXXS Microtechnology AG | Flow cell with reagent storage |
DE102017220525A1 (en) * | 2017-11-17 | 2019-05-23 | Robert Bosch Gmbh | Adapter for sample entry into a microfluidic device |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2020244864A1 (en) | 2020-12-10 |
US20220323954A1 (en) | 2022-10-13 |
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