JP2005508490A - Verification test system for adjusting temperature - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus for evaluating at least one analyte in a sample. The apparatus includes a cassette having a hollow test chamber, a test piece disposed in the test chamber for receiving a sample, and a temperature control member. The cassette has at least one opening extending from the outer surface of the cassette to a hollow test chamber. The test strip includes a reagent that is adapted to react with at least one analyte to produce a reaction indicative of the presence of the analyte. The temperature control member is adapted to extend through the at least one opening of the cassette and into the test chamber to control the temperature of the test chamber.

Description

【Technical field】
[0001]
The present invention relates generally to the field of qualitative and semi-qualitative assays, and more specifically to cassettes for adjusting the temperature of the assay.
[Background]
[0002]
Immunochromatographic strip formats have become increasingly popular for qualitative and semi-quantitative assays using visual detection methods. This type of assay involves applying a liquid sample suspected of containing the analyte to be detected to the application area of the immunochromatographic strip. The test strip is composed of a matrix of absorbent material, in which a reagent for detecting the test fluid and the analyte is detected by capillary action from the test strip application area or its signal. Absence can flow to a capture zone that reveals the presence of the analyte. Usually, the test strip comprises a means for immunospecifically binding the analyte to be detected with its specific binding partner having a detectable label. In one such manner, the test strip includes an enzyme-labeled mobile binding partner for the analyte that is located in an area downstream from the sample application area. If an analyte is present in the sample, it can bind to the labeled binding partner to form a complex that flows along the test strip and emits a color response in the presence of the enzyme. A detection zone containing a substrate for enzyme labeling can be reached. The test strip captures the labeled binding partner that does not bind to the analyte due to the absence of the analyte in the sample, thereby preventing the area where the analyte is immobilized so that it does not reach the detection zone. Can be included. There are various variations on this technique, all of which are some competitive specific binding where the presence or absence of the analyte in the sample is determined by the detection or absence of a labeled binding partner in the detection zone. Includes systems.
[0003]
An alternative to the above immunoassay that detects the free labeled binding partner is an immobilized antibody against the epitope of the analyte where the capture zone is different from the epitope for which the labeled antibody exhibits specificity. Is a so-called sandwich format. In this format, the analyte is sandwiched between an immobilized binding partner and a labeled specific binding partner, so this is an immunoassay that detects bound, labeled specific binding partner. It is a test.
[0004]
Not all immunochromatographic modes rely on enzyme-labeled binding partners / enzyme substrates to generate analyte detection signals. For example, US Pat. No. 4,806,311 receives a labeled reagent moving from a reagent zone for a specific binding assay measurement between an analyte and its immobilized binding partner. A multi-zone test apparatus having a capture area for the same is disclosed. The capture zone contains an immobilized form of the binding material for the labeled reagent. The labeled reagent has a chemical group with a detectable physical property so that it does not require a chemical reaction with another substance to be detected. Examples of such groups are fluorophore species, phosphor molecules, radioisotopes and electroactive groups.
[0005]
U.S. Pat. No. 4,703,017 describes the use of visible particulate labels for receptors. Various particulate labels such as gold sol particles and liposomes containing visible dyes are mentioned. PCT patent application publication WO 96/34271 discloses an apparatus for measuring target analytes and creatinine in a fluid sample. The apparatus has an assay strip for creatinine detection and a second assay strip for target analyte detection. Creatinine concentration can be measured by colorimetric methods or by specific capture of labeled creatinine binding partners. The concentration of the target analyte is modified based on the creatinine concentration of the sample, and this modification can be performed manually or by an appropriately programmed reflection analyzer.
[0006]
The immunochromatographic test strip format provides a system that can be used to measure a variety of analytes (whether antigens or antibodies), but some analytes require accurate quantitative results. In some cases, the results are limited to producing semi-quantitative results at best. The test strip can be prepared from a test fluid carrying the analyte and a labeled binder-analyte contained therein-any matrix material through which the analyte can flow by capillary action. A matrix is substantially free of all dissolved or dispersed components of a liquid, as opposed to preferential retention of one or more components that would apply if the matrix material is capable of adsorbing or absorbing one or more of the components. A material capable of supporting a non-water-absorbing side stream as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,943,522 as a liquid stream carried through the matrix at a relatively equal velocity and relatively unweakened flow Can do. An example of such a matrix material is a high density or ultra high molecular weight polyethylene sheet material from Porex Technologies (Fairburn, GA). Equally suitable as a matrix from which chromatographic specimens can be made are water-absorbing materials such as paper, nitrocellulose and nylon.
[0007]
One variable that must be controlled in an analysis using immunochromatographic strips is temperature control. Temperature is an important variable because all immunochemical reactions are characterized by two temperature-dependent adverse reactions simultaneously. These are the appearance of free antigens and antibodies due to the formation of immune complexes from the antigen and its antibodies and the dissociation of the immune complexes. As temperature increases, reaction rates increase, and immunochromatographic strip formats are usually measured under non-equilibrium conditions due to the short assay time associated with them, so temperature control is performed both in the laboratory and between laboratories. It is extremely important to ensure a consistent reaction rate and thereby provide a more reproducible assay quantification. Currently, the temperature is not controlled. Usually, immunochromatographic test strips are performed at ambient temperature, which can range from 20-30 ° C. It is clear that temperature control controls the immunochemical reaction, thereby leading to more reproducible results, since the reaction rate almost doubles with every 10 ° C. temperature increase.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
[0008]
An apparatus for controlling the temperature of the assay includes a disposable test cassette having a heat conducting member, such as an aluminum bar, disposed in the cassette. In such an apparatus, the heat conducting bar is in thermal communication with a test strip for adjusting the temperature of the assay. The thermal bar facilitates warming of the assay during the incubation period. After the assay is complete, the cassette containing the heat transfer member is discarded. These devices achieved good results in controlling the temperature of the assay. However, one drawback associated with such devices is that the heat transfer member is discarded with a disposable test cassette having a heat transfer member disposed therein. Thus, each use of a disposable test cassette having a heat conducting member disposed therein incurs costs associated with providing the heat conducting member. Therefore, there is a need for an inexpensive and easy to manufacture test cassette for controlling the temperature of the assay.
[Means for Solving the Problems]
[0009]
An apparatus for evaluating at least one analyte in a sample includes a cassette having a hollow test chamber, a test piece disposed in the test chamber for receiving the sample, and a temperature control member. . The cassette has at least one opening extending from the outer surface of the cassette to a hollow test chamber. The test strip includes a reagent that is adapted to react with the analyte to produce a reaction indicative of the presence of the analyte. The temperature control member extends through the cassette opening and into the test chamber to control the temperature of the test chamber.
[0010]
The above summary of the present invention is intended to represent each embodiment or each feature of the present invention. Further features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description, drawings, and claims.
[0011]
Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the drawings.
[0012]
Detailed Description of Illustrative Embodiments As discussed in the background section, an apparatus for controlling the temperature of an assay includes a disposable test cassette that includes a heat conducting member, such as an aluminum bar, disposed within the cassette. The heat conducting member facilitates temperature control of the assay. However, a drawback with such a device is that the heat transfer member is discarded with a disposable test cassette having a heat transfer member disposed in the cassette.
[0013]
The present invention provides an inexpensive and easy to manufacture test cassette that allows heating elements to protrude into the cassette test chamber to control the temperature of the assay. The present invention eliminates the need to place a separate temperature control member, such as the aluminum bar described above, in the test cassette and discard it with the test cassette after calibration. As described above, more accurate results can be obtained from the assay when the temperature of the assay is controlled.
[0014]
Referring first to FIG. 1, an assay test cassette 10 of one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The test cassette 10 includes a cassette upper portion 12 and a cassette lower portion 14 that fit together after a test strip (not shown), eg, an immunochromatographic test strip, is placed in the test strip receiving hole 16 of the cassette lower portion 14. Designed to be
[0015]
The cassette upper part 10 has an application port 18 through which a liquid sample is applied to a test piece, and a viewing window 20 through which a detection area of the test piece can be seen. The cassette may optionally include a slit (not shown) for venting purposes. The cassette upper part 12 and the cassette lower part 14 are manufactured so as to form a hollow test chamber when fitted. Prior to mating, the test piece is placed in the test piece receiving hole 16. The cassette 10 may be a test strip application area (a first area containing a labeled specific binding agent or a separate area of the test strip) when the cassette top 12 and bottom 14 are mated. May be aligned with the sample application port 18, and the detection area of the test piece is designed to align with the viewing window 20.
[0016]
The cassette lower portion 14 includes a pair of rectangular openings or slots 22 through which, when the cassette upper portion 12 and the cassette lower portion 14 are mated, the temperature control element is a hollow test to adjust the temperature of the assay. Project into the room. The cassette lower part 14 is locked with a pin (not shown) of the cassette upper part 12 when the cassette upper part 12 and the cassette lower part 14 are fitted, and a series of sockets 23 that hold the upper part 12 and the lower part 14 together. Can be provided. The lower portion of the cassette optionally includes a recess 24 for holding a desiccant.
[0017]
A variety of immunochromatographic strip formats are suitable for use in the present invention. The test strip typically has a first region (eg, a reagent pad) made of an absorbent material, such as paper or membrane, impregnated with a reagent corresponding to the particular test being performed. In a conventional immunochromatography apparatus, the test strip is then placed in the hole 16 in the lower cassette 14 such that the reagent pad is located below the sample application port 18. Alternatively, the test strip can have an application area that does not contain a reagent, with the reagent area downstream and in fluid communication therewith. Such a test piece is disclosed in US Pat. No. 4,446,232.
[0018]
Referring to FIG. 2, a fixed plate 26 is shown having integral fins 28 that provide temperature control to the test cassette 10 during calibration. The fixed plate 26 and the fins 28 are manufactured so that the fins 28 constitute an integral part of the fixed plate 26. By integrally manufacturing the fixed plate 26 and the fins 28, heat loss from the interface between the fixed plate 26 and the fins 28 is reduced. In other words, if the fins are connected to the fixed plate by screws, for example, instead of being integrally formed, the total thermal conductivity of the fixed plate and the fins is reduced at the interface between the fin and the fixed plate. The stationary plate 26 and the fins 28 can be made of any thermally conductive material that is more thermally conductive than the cassette 10 (the cassette 10 is made of plastic in one embodiment of the invention). The thermally conductive material of the plate 26 and the fins 28 includes copper, gold, silver, aluminum and other alloys having excellent thermal properties. In one embodiment of the invention, the stationary plate 26 and the fins 28 are made of aluminum. Aluminum is an excellent thermal conductor and is relatively inexpensive compared to gold, silver and copper.
[0019]
With reference to FIG. 3, the cassette lower portion 14 is shown resting on a stationary plate 26 such that the fins 28 protrude through the slots 22 disposed in the cassette lower portion 14. When the cassette upper portion 12 and the cassette lower portion 14 are mated, the fins 28 extend up into the hollow test chamber of the cassette 10 to provide temperature control to the test chamber containing the immunochromatographic test strip during the assay. .
[0020]
Referring to FIG. 4, a temperature control mechanism 30 is shown. The temperature control mechanism 30 includes a cassette carrier 32, a fixture carrier or heating device 34 and a circuit box 36. The cassette carrier 32 is hinged to the heating device 34 and pivots the cassette 10 disposed in the cassette carrier 32 downward so that the cassette lower portion 14 is connected to the fixed plate 26 disposed on the heating device 34. Make contact. When the assay is performed, the cassette 10 having the test specimen disposed therein is inserted into the cassette carrier 32 through the opening 38 of the cassette carrier 32. After inserting the cassette 10 into the carrier 32, the door 40 of the cassette carrier 32 is closed and the generated heat is held in the closed space of the cassette carrier 32. Then, the cassette carrier 32 is rotated downward.
[0021]
The fixed plate 26 having the integrated fins 28 is thermally coupled to the heating device 34. Therefore, the fixing plate 26 and the fins 28 are heated by conduction by the heating device 34. The heating device 34 includes a thermoelectric device, such as a Peltier effect thermoelectric device. The circuit box 36 includes the electronic components necessary to power and control the electrical heating elements of the heating device 34 and, in some cases, one or more lights that visually indicate the operating state of the mechanism 30. A diode (LED) 42 is included.
[0022]
When the cassette carrier is closed (eg, turned downward), the cassette lower portion 14 contacts the stationary plate 26, causing the fins 28 to pass through the slots and into the hollow test chamber. Meanwhile, the fins 28 heat the test chamber, thereby adjusting the temperature of the reaction. A tension coil spring (not shown) between the cassette carrier 32 and the stationary carrier 34 maintains contact between the cassette lower portion 14 and the stationary plate 26.
[0023]
In use, the test piece is placed in the hole 16 of the cassette lower part 14 and then the cassette lower part is fitted to the cassette upper part 12. A fluid sample (eg, urine) is applied to a first region of the test strip or, optionally, a sample application pad. The fluid sample flows through the first zone of the test strip and contacts the labeled antibody, which flows with the fluid sample toward the detection zone. In the detection zone, the labeled antibody is captured by interaction with the immobilized analyte or by interaction with the analyte in the fluid sample. Regardless of how the labeled antibody is captured in the detection zone, a detectable response (in the absence of signal in the former case) occurs and the response can be read by an appropriately programmed reflection spectrometer. Various assays measure the presence and / or concentration of the analyte in the sample.
[0024]
Many clinically significant target analytes are present in urine and can be measured by immunochromatographic strips of the type discussed herein. These analytes include deoxypyridinoline, human serum albumin and drugs of abuse such as amphetamine, barbiturate and cocaine. The means for detecting the signal from the colored test strip of the device of the invention depends on the detectable label attached to the labeled binding partner, but the detectable physical properties of the label at a given wavelength. In the case of the reflectance of light, it is common to use a reflection spectrometer. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the cassettes containing the test strips or the detector elements of the instrument relative to each other, such as by use of a sample table for the test strip that can be moved laterally below the read head of the detector. A reflectometer having means for moving is provided. As discussed above, maintaining careful temperature control increases calibration accuracy.
[0025]
The illustrated embodiment of the stationary plate 26 and the cassette lower portion 14 shows a set of two fins 28, each corresponding to two slots, but various other configurations are possible with alternative embodiments of the present invention. . For example, the cassette lower portion 14 can include four narrow slots corresponding to each fin. Alternatively, the fixation plate 26 may include a plurality of cylindrical fins (eg, rods) that project through circular holes in the cassette lower portion 14 and provide temperature control to the temperature of the hollow body.
[0026]
Cassette 10 is intended to be a disposable test device. Having the disposable cassette 10 prevents or reduces the risk of contamination of the test area and sample. As discussed above, cassette top 12 and cassette 14 are made of plastic. Cassette upper portion 12 and cassette lower portion 14 can be inexpensively manufactured by injection molding upper portion 12 and lower portion 14 from a plastic comprising high impact polystyrene, ABS or styrene, in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the cassette lower portion 14 includes a wall (not shown) made of a thin plastic material that prevents physical contact between the sample and the fins 28. In such an embodiment, the thin wall prevents or reduces the risk of subsequent sample cross-contamination.
[0027]
5 and 6, an alternative embodiment of the cassette lower portion 60 and the heating mechanism 62 is shown. The heating mechanism 62 includes a heater carrier 64 and a resistance heating element 66. The cassette lower portion 60 is designed to mate with a cassette upper portion similar to that shown in FIG. The lower cassette portion shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 includes a rectangular opening 68 for receiving the resistive heating element 66. When the cassette upper part (shown in FIG. 1) and the cassette lower part are fitted, the resistance heating element 66 passes through the opening 68 and protrudes into the hollow test chamber of the cassette. The cassette lower portion 60 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 is similar to FIG. 1 except that the rectangular opening 68 may be a different size than that shown in FIGS. 1-4 depending on the physical size of the resistive heating element. It is similar to the lower part of the cassette shown in FIG.
[0028]
When the calibration is performed, the heating mechanism 62 provides the advantage of rapid temperature control because the resistive heating element 66 heats rapidly while the hollow test chamber of the cassette can be quickly brought to the desired temperature. provide. Furthermore, since the heat source (ie, the resistance heating element 66) is very close to the test piece, the time required to bring the test chamber to the desired temperature is shortened.
[0029]
According to one embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus, such as the temperature control mechanism 30 shown in FIG. 4, can be used with the heating mechanism 62 shown in FIG. The heating mechanism 62 replaces the fixed plate 26 having the integrated fin 28. The temperature control mechanism operates similarly to the method described in connection with FIG. The temperature control mechanism includes a circuit that is designed to regulate the temperature inside the cassette by controlling the amount of current passing through the resistive heating element. According to an alternative aspect, the heating mechanism 62 includes a cover (not shown) disposed over the resistive heating element 66 to prevent the resistive heating element 66 from contacting the specimen during the assay.
[0030]
7, 8 and 9, another alternative embodiment of the cassette lower portion 80 and the heating mechanism 82 is shown. The cassette lower part 80 is shown inserted in the heating mechanism 82. The cassette lower portion 80 is designed to mate with a cassette upper portion similar to that shown in FIG. The heating mechanism 82 includes a cassette carrier 84 and a hot air blower 86 disposed near both ends 88 and 90 of the cassette lower part 80. As clearly shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, each end 88, 90 of the cassette lower portion 80 includes a hot air inlet 92 corresponding to the outlet 94 of the hot air blower 86. Each hot air blower 86 includes a fan (not shown) that pushes air into a resistance heating element (not shown) to generate a hot air stream that exits hot air blower 86 through outlet 94.
[0031]
The amount of heating provided by each hot air blower 86 can vary depending on the amount of current supplied to the resistive heating element and the speed and size of the fan. Depending on the amount of hot air generated by the hot air blower 86, the heating mechanism 82 can quickly heat the air in the test chamber of the test cassette to a desired temperature. The heating mechanism 82 includes an electrical circuit (not shown) that is designed to adjust the required temperature inside the cassette 80 by controlling the amount of current supplied to the resistance heating element and the speed of the fan.
[0032]
When performing the test, the sample is applied to the test piece arranged in the test cassette through the cassette application port. The test cassette is inserted into the heating mechanism 82 and the hot air blower 86 is turned on. According to one embodiment of the heating mechanism 82, the cassette carrier 84 includes a switch (not shown) that automatically turns on the hot air blower when the test cassette is inserted into the cassette carrier 84. Hot air is blown into the test chamber of the test cassette to raise the temperature of the test cassette to a desired level and then maintain the test chamber at that temperature. According to an alternative embodiment, the test cassette lower portion 80 includes appropriate baffle plates and passages that prevent heated air from flowing directly to the test strip to minimize test fluid evaporation. Further, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the cassette lower portion includes one or more openings that allow air to escape from the cassette lower portion 80 when the test chamber is filled with hot air from the hot air blower 86.
[0033]
While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and have been described in detail herein. However, there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific forms disclosed, but rather to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims. It will be understood.
[Brief description of the drawings]
[0034]
FIG. 1 is a top and bottom perspective view of a cassette according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a fixing plate having fins according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the lower part of a cassette on a fixing plate having fins according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a temperature control mechanism according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a cassette lower portion and a heating mechanism according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
6 is a perspective view of the lower part of the cassette on the heating mechanism shown in FIG. 5. FIG.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the lower portion of the cassette inserted into the heating mechanism, according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention.
8 is a perspective view of the lower end of the cassette and the corresponding hot air blower of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG.
9 is a perspective view of the lower end of the cassette and the corresponding hot air blower in the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 7; FIG.

Claims (57)

A test cassette for use in an assay for evaluating at least one analyte in a sample, comprising a hollow body having at least one opening, wherein the at least one opening comprises at least one Test cassette adapted to receive a temperature control member of The test cassette of claim 1, further comprising an immunochromatographic test piece disposed in the hollow body, wherein the test piece is made of a water-absorbing material. The test cassette of claim 1, wherein the at least one opening includes a plurality of openings, each of the plurality of openings being adapted to receive one or more temperature control members. The test cassette of claim 1, wherein the hollow body includes a cassette upper portion and a cassette lower portion, and the cassette lower portion includes the at least one opening. The test cassette according to claim 1, wherein the upper portion of the cassette and the lower portion of the cassette are made of plastic. The test cassette of claim 5, wherein the plastic is high impact polystyrene, ABS or styrene. An apparatus for evaluating at least one analyte in a sample, comprising:
A cassette having a hollow test chamber and at least one opening extending from its outer surface to said hollow test chamber;
A test strip comprising a reagent disposed in a test chamber for receiving the sample and adapted to react with the at least one analyte to produce a reaction indicative of the presence of the analyte When,
A temperature control member for controlling the temperature of the test chamber adapted to extend through the at least one opening of the cassette and into the test chamber. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the test strip comprises an immunochromatographic test strip. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the test piece is made of a water-absorbing material. 8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the cassette upper part and the cassette lower part are made of plastic. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the temperature control member includes at least one fin. The apparatus of claim 11, further comprising a thermoelectric temperature control unit in thermal communication with the at least one fin. The at least one fin includes a plurality of fins, the at least one opening of the cassette includes a plurality of openings, and each of the plurality of openings is adapted to receive one or more of the plurality of fins. 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein one or more of the plurality of fins is adapted to extend through the plurality of openings and into the test chamber. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the temperature control member further includes a fixing plate attached to the plurality of fins, and the fixing plate and the plurality of fins are integrally formed. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the stationary plate and the plurality of fins are made of a heat conductive material. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the thermally conductive material is aluminum. The apparatus of claim 7 in combination with a spectrometer adapted to read the reaction indicative of the presence of the analyte. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the temperature control member includes at least one resistive heating element. The at least one resistance heating element includes a plurality of resistance heating elements, the at least one opening of the cassette includes a plurality of openings, and each of the plurality of openings includes one or more of the plurality of resistance heating elements. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein one or more of the plurality of resistance heating elements are adapted to pass through each of the plurality of openings and extend into the test chamber. The apparatus of claim 18, further comprising a circuit adapted to control an amount of current supplied to the at least one resistive heating element. A device for controlling the temperature of the assay,
A cassette carrier adapted to receive a test cassette having at least one opening;
A heat conducting member adapted to extend through the at least one opening of a test cassette received by the cassette carrier;
And a temperature control unit in thermal communication with the heat conducting member. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the heat conducting member is made of aluminum. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the heat conducting member includes at least one fin secured to a stationary plate. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the fixed plate and at least one fin are integrally formed. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the at least one fin comprises two or more fins. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the material is a heat conducting material. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the temperature control unit includes a thermoelectric device. 28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the thermoelectric device is a Peltier effect thermoelectric device. A method for evaluating at least one analyte in a sample, comprising:
Providing a test cassette having at least one opening;
Placing a test strip containing a reagent adapted to react with the at least one analyte to produce a reaction indicative of the presence of the analyte in a test cassette test chamber;
Applying a sample to the specimen;
Controlling the temperature of the test chamber by a temperature control member adapted to extend through at least one opening formed in the test cassette. 30. The method of claim 29, further comprising detecting a change in the test strip. 30. The method of claim 29, wherein the test strip comprises an immunochromatographic test strip. 30. The method of claim 29, further comprising forming the test cassette from a cassette upper portion and a cassette lower portion. 30. The method of claim 29, wherein the temperature control member element comprises at least one fin. 34. The method of claim 33, wherein the temperature control member includes a fixed plate attached to the at least one fin, the fixed plate and the at least one fin being integrally formed. 35. The method of claim 34, wherein the stationary plate and the at least one fin are made of a thermally conductive material. 30. The method of claim 29, wherein the temperature control member includes at least one resistive heating element. 38. The method of claim 36, wherein the control further comprises controlling an amount of current passing through the at least one resistance heating element. A test cassette for use in an assay for evaluating at least one analyte in a sample, comprising a hollow body having at least one opening, wherein the at least one opening is from a hot air blower A test cassette that is adapted to receive air. 39. The test cassette of claim 38, further comprising an immunochromatographic test strip disposed in the hollow body, wherein the test strip is made of a water absorbent material. 40. The test cassette of claim 38, wherein the at least one opening includes a plurality of openings, each of the plurality of openings being adapted to receive air from one or more hot air blowers. 41. The test cassette of claim 40, wherein one or more of the plurality of openings are disposed at one end of the test cassette and one or more of the plurality of openings are disposed at an opposite end of the test cassette. 39. The test cassette of claim 38, wherein the hollow body includes a cassette upper portion and a cassette lower portion, and the cassette lower portion includes the at least one opening. 39. A test cassette according to claim 38, wherein the upper portion of the cassette and the lower portion of the cassette are made of plastic. 44. The test cassette of claim 43, wherein the plastic is high impact polystyrene, ABS or styrene. A device for controlling the temperature of the assay,
A cassette carrier adapted to receive a test cassette having at least one opening;
At least one resistive heating element adapted to extend through the at least one opening of a test cassette received by the cassette carrier;
A temperature control unit electrically coupled to the at least one resistance heating element and adapted to control a current passing through the at least one resistance heating element. The at least one resistance heating element includes two or more resistance heating elements, the at least one opening of the cassette includes a plurality of openings, and one or more of the resistance heating elements includes the plurality of openings, respectively. 46. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein the apparatus is adapted to extend through the test chamber. A device for controlling the temperature of the assay,
A cassette carrier adapted to receive a test cassette having at least one opening;
At least one hot air blower adapted to blow hot air through the at least one opening and into the test cassette;
A temperature control unit electrically coupled to the at least one hot air blower and adapted to control the temperature of the air generated by the hot air blower. 48. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein the temperature control unit is adapted to control the amount of hot air generated by the at least one hot air blower. 48. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein the at least one hot air blower comprises two or more hot air blowers and the at least one opening of the cassette comprises a plurality of openings. 48. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein one of the plurality of openings is disposed at a first end of the test cassette and another one of the plurality of openings is disposed at an opposite end of the test cassette. 48. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein the hot air blower includes at least one resistive heating element. A method for evaluating at least one analyte in a sample, comprising:
Providing a test cassette having at least one opening;
Placing a test strip in a test chamber of the test cassette that includes a reagent adapted to react with the at least one analyte to produce a reaction indicative of the presence of the analyte;
Applying a sample to the specimen;
Blowing hot air into the test chamber of the test cassette to control the temperature of the test chamber. 53. The method of claim 52, further comprising detecting a change in the test strip. 53. The method of claim 52, wherein the test strip comprises an immunochromatographic test strip. 53. The method of claim 52, further comprising forming the test cassette from a cassette upper portion and a cassette lower portion. 53. The method of claim 52, further comprising controlling a temperature of the hot air blown into the test chamber. The hot air blowing further includes blowing hot air with a hot air blower, the hot air blower includes a resistance heating element, and the temperature control of the hot air further includes controlling a current passing through the resistance heating element. Item 56. The method according to Item 56.