JP2010068783A - Nucleic acid detection cassette and nucleic acid detection apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a small-sized closed-type nucleic acid detection cassette suitable to automatically achieve a series of treatments including a nucleic acid amplification, other necessary treatments and detection of a target nucleic acid. <P>SOLUTION: The nucleic acid detection cassette is characterized by having a heat treatment chamber and a solution-sending flow path which are composed of a fixation member and a flexible member. In the nucleic acid detection cassette, the heat treatment chamber and the solution-sending flow path are spatially separated by sandwiching the heat treatment chamber between two projecting heat units. Thus, it becomes possible to automatically achieve a series of treatments including the nucleic acid amplification of an object sample, other necessary treatments and the detection of the target nucleic acid. Detection sensitivity can be improved by individually connecting a plurality of nucleic acid amplification chambers to a plurality of detection parts. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a nucleic acid detection cassette suitable for fully automatic processing of detection of a target nucleic acid following the pretreatment step and the pretreatment step, and a nucleic acid detection apparatus using the nucleic acid detection cassette.

  With the development of genetic engineering in recent years, it is becoming possible to diagnose or prevent diseases caused by genes in the medical field. Such a diagnosis is called a genetic diagnosis, and the genetic diagnosis detects a human genetic defect or change that causes the disease to diagnose or predict the disease before or at the very beginning of the disease. I can do it. In addition to the decoding of the human genome, research on the relationship between genotypes and epidemics is progressing, and treatment tailored to each individual's genotype (tailor-made medicine) is becoming a reality.

  In addition, crimes that use chemical substances such as poisonous gases and powerful drugs, called bioterrorism, are increasing, which is a social threat. The rapid identification of substances used in crimes is essential from the viewpoint of lifesaving. Therefore, it is very important to detect a gene simply and quickly and determine the genotype.

  Conventionally, as a system for detecting a nucleic acid, a system in which devices such as a nucleic acid extraction device, a nucleic acid amplification device, a hybridization device, a nucleic acid detection device, and a data analysis device are individually used is known. In such a system, sample preparation other than that realized by these apparatuses, movement of samples between apparatuses, and the like are required.

  In the nucleic acid amplification, there is a problem that when a sample before amplification is mixed with a very small amount of another nucleic acid, the nucleic acid is also amplified in a large amount to cause erroneous detection. It is known that nucleic acid molecules are stable even in a dry state, adsorb to various substances, and may float in the air. Therefore, in order to prevent erroneous detection, a strict management system is required such that the amplified sample is not brought into the place where nucleic acid extraction is performed.

  In recent years, an apparatus for automatically performing steps from a hybridization reaction to data analysis has been developed. On the other hand, a fully automatic nucleic acid detection apparatus for automatically performing processes from nucleic acid extraction to data analysis has recently been developed.

  However, the existing fully automatic nucleic acid detectors are not designed for the above-mentioned detection non-target nucleic acid molecules, and many of them are large, so they are intended for research use. ing. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a nucleic acid detection apparatus that detects nucleic acid subsequent to nucleic acid amplification and nucleic acid amplification as a nucleic acid detection apparatus that can handle automatic processing.

An important issue in the development of a nucleic acid analyzer is that contamination of non-detected nucleic acid molecules is caused and leakage of nucleic acid samples to the outside.
JP-A-3-7571 JP-A-2005-261298

  In general, in a nucleic acid extraction and amplification process, a method of heating a solution as a sample is taken. In a conventional nucleic acid analyzer, a valve is mounted to switch a solution feeding path as disclosed in Patent Document 2. In the structure in which the liquid supply path is switched by such a valve, there is a problem that the steam generated in the heat treatment part flows out to the open channel part, and the reaction controllability by the heat treatment is deteriorated.

  Therefore, in order to isolate the heat treatment part, a method of closing all the valves for switching the flow path can be thought of, but the heat treatment part and the position closed by the valve are not the same, so that the heat treatment part is communicated. A non-heated part will arise in the area | region which has. As a result, the solution heated in the heating unit diffuses as vapor and dew condensation occurs in the non-heated region. When this dew condensation phenomenon occurs, there is a problem that the solution part that has reacted by heating and the solution part that has become vapor during heating and has dewed without reacting have a problem. Therefore, 1) Since the solution concentration at the time of reaction changes from the start of heating, there is a possibility that an effective reaction may not be performed. 2) Since the solution is divided, it may be difficult to move the desired solution to the desired position when the treated solution is fed. Further, it is conceivable that the heating is performed by expanding the region of the valve so as not to cause the above problem. However, since the distance to the adjacent processing chamber is shortened by expanding the heating region, the heat conduction to the region where the temperature rise is not desired significantly occurs. In order to prevent such heat conduction, it is necessary to take a sufficient distance, and as a result, there is a problem that the detection cassette becomes large.

  In addition, in order to process the reaction of the nucleic acid in the cassette, necessary reagents are built in the cassette in advance. However, the amounts of these reagents are very small, and it is difficult to keep them in the required positions. For example, when the reagent held in the chamber comes into contact with the outflow channel from the chamber, the reagent often flows out of the chamber through the channel due to capillary action.

  Thus, in a small cassette, it is desired to be able to limit the reaction region by heating and ensure the necessary solution movement. In addition, it is required to securely hold the internal reagent in the small cassette.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and its purpose is to provide a compact closure suitable for consistently and automatically processing nucleic acid amplification and other necessary processing up to detection of a target nucleic acid. A type of nucleic acid detection cassette is provided.

  This nucleic acid detection cassette preferably has both the reaction controllability by heat treatment and the certainty of liquid feeding.

  In addition, it is preferable that the nucleic acid detection cassette has a structure that securely holds a built-in reagent at a predetermined position.

According to this invention,
The first through-hole (S), the second through-hole (S), and the first groove ( S1), a first groove (S2) formed on the surface, a second groove (S) provided on the facing surface, a first through hole (A), a second through hole (A), 1st groove | channel (A1) formed in the said surface, 1st groove | channel (A2) formed in the said surface, 2nd groove | channel (A) provided in the said opposing surface, space (D), the said surface A plate-like member having a first groove (D1) formed on the surface and a first groove (D2) formed on the surface;
First and second sheet-like members covering the surface and the opposing surface;
A pump part formed on the plate-like member for supplying gas pressure;
A sample chamber part that is defined by the first through hole (S) being closed by the first and second sheet-like members, communicates with the pump part, and holds a nucleic acid sample;
Formed in the plate-like member, the first through hole (A) is defined by being closed by the first and second sheet-like members, communicated with the sample chamber portion, and the sample chamber portion An amplification chamber section for receiving a nucleic acid sample from and amplifying the nucleic acid in the nucleic acid sample;
A detection unit that is formed on the plate-like member, communicates with the amplification chamber unit, receives the nucleic acid sample, and detects a target nucleic acid from the nucleic acid sample;
A reflux channel communicating the detection unit and the pump unit;
A first flow path (1S1) defined by the first groove (S1) being covered by the first sheet-like member;
A first flow path (1S2) defined by the first groove (S2) being covered by the first sheet-like member;
A second flow path (2S) defined by the second groove (S) being covered by the second sheet-like member;
A third flow path (3S) defined by the second through hole (S) being covered with the first sheet-like member and the second sheet-like member;
A first flow path (1A1) defined by the first groove (A1) being covered with the first sheet-like member;
A first flow path (1A2) defined by the first groove (A2) being covered with the first sheet-like member;
A second flow path (2A) defined by the second groove (A) being covered by the second sheet-like member;
A third flow path (3A) defined by the second through hole (A) being covered with the first sheet-like member and the second sheet-like member;
A first flow path (1D1) defined by the first groove (D1) being covered by the first sheet-like member;
A first flow path (1D2) defined by the first groove (D2) being covered by the first sheet-like member;
A nucleic acid detection cassette comprising a valve part (D) for switching between opening and closing between the detection part and the reflux channel,
The pump unit, the sample chamber unit, the amplification unit, and the detection unit communicate in an annular shape, and the sample chamber unit includes the first flow path (1S1) and the second flow path. (2S) connects,
The third channel (3S) is connected to the second channel (2S),
The first channel (1S2) is connected to the third channel (3S),
The amplification chamber section is connected to the first channel (1A1) and the second channel (2A),
The third channel (3A) is connected to the second channel (2A),
The first channel (1A2) is connected to the third channel (3A),
The first flow path (1D1) and the first flow path (1D2) are connected to the detection unit,
In the sample chamber part, the gas pressure supplied by the pump part is applied from the first flow path (1S1), whereby the nucleic acid sample held in the sample chamber part is converted into the second chamber. Are discharged through the flow path (2S), the third flow path (3S) and the first flow path (1S2),
In the amplification chamber section, the nucleic acid sample flows from the first flow path (1A1) together with the gas pressure supplied from the pump section, and the gas supplied from the first flow path (1A1) to the pump section. When the pressure is applied, the nucleic acid sample is discharged through the second channel (2A), the third channel (3A), and the first channel (1A2),
In the detection unit, the nucleic acid sample flows from the first channel (1D1) together with the gas pressure supplied from the pump unit, and the gas pressure supplied from the pump unit from the first channel (1D1) By being given, the nucleic acid sample is discharged through the first flow path (1D2),
The gas pressure is refluxed from the detection unit to the pump unit through the reflux channel,
There are provided a nucleic acid detection cassette characterized in that a plurality of sets of the amplification chamber section, the detection section, and flow paths connected to them are provided, and nucleic acid samples amplified in different amplification chamber sections are detected by different detection sections. Is done.

  According to the present invention, leakage of nucleic acids to the external environment and contamination of nucleic acids from the outside can be prevented, and nucleic acid amplification and other necessary processing and detection of the target nucleic acid can be performed consistently and automatically. it can.

  In addition, since the reagent stored in the interior in advance is held at a predetermined position and no unintentional outflow occurs, stable reaction processing and detection can be realized.

  Also, different types of liquids such as nucleic acid samples and washing liquids can be held and moved with good controllability according to the purpose for each type.

  In addition, it is possible to simultaneously detect amplification products amplified under a plurality of conditions at the same time with high sensitivity.

  Hereinafter, a nucleic acid detection cassette and a nucleic acid detection apparatus according to embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings as necessary.

  FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view schematically showing a nucleic acid detection cassette 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  The nucleic acid detection cassette 100 is a closed channel cassette including a cassette body 1 and sheet-like members 2 and 3.

  The cassette body 1 is composed of a rigid plate-like member, and is formed with grooves and depressions communicating with the grooves on the surface side and the opposing surface, and penetrates from the surface side (upper surface side) to the opposing surface side (lower surface side). A through hole is formed. A continuous flow path is formed in the cassette body 1 by a groove and a through hole between the sheet-like members 2 and 3 and the cassette body 1. Sheet-like members 2 and 3 are affixed to both surfaces of the cassette body 1, and grooves, depressions and through holes formed on the surface side and the opposite surface of the cassette body 1 are defined in the flow path. In the following description, a channel defined by a groove or a recess on the upper surface side is referred to as an upper surface side channel, and a channel defined by a groove or a recess on the lower surface side is referred to as a lower surface side channel.

  The cassette body 1 is made of a polymer material such as polycarbonate, polypropylene, POM, PMMA, polylactic acid resin, PET, PEEK, PTFE, PFE, or PPS having a relatively low thermal conductivity so that heat is not transferred between the chambers. It is made. Further, at least a part of the sheet-like members 2 and 3 is made of a flexible material. As the flexible material, silicon rubber, polypropylene rubber, urethane rubber, elastomer or the like having a relatively high thermal conductivity is desirable so that heat is transferred from the heater to the chamber. By reducing the thickness of the sheet-like member, the same effect can be obtained without necessarily selecting a material having high thermal conductivity. The groove and the through hole may be made by cutting a plate-like member, or may be formed by injection molding or press working at the time of molding.

(First configuration)
<Nucleic acid detection cassette>
FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the nucleic acid detection cassette having the first configuration. As shown in FIG. 2, the nucleic acid detection cassette having the first configuration includes a pump unit (P) for supplying a gas pressure, a sample chamber unit (S) for holding a nucleic acid sample, and a plurality of amplifying nucleic acid samples. Amplification chamber sections (A _a , A _b , A _c ), a plurality of sample holding chamber sections (M _a , M _b , M _c ) for mixing amplification products and reagents in each amplification chamber, and each sample holding chamber A plurality of detection units (D _a , D _b , D _c ) for detecting a target nucleic acid from each amplification product mixed with the above reagents are provided in the same cassette body.

  A sample pretreatment reagent such as nucleic acid extraction is held in the sample chamber section (S) as needed. Here, pretreatment of the nucleic acid sample is performed.

Reagents for amplifying nucleic acid samples such as primers and buffers are previously held in the amplification chamber sections (A _a , A _b , A _c ). Here, the nucleic acid sample is amplified. By providing a plurality of amplification chambers, the input nucleic acid sample can be amplified under a plurality of different conditions.

In the sample holding chamber section (M _a , M _b , M _c ), a solid salt or liquid buffer for adjusting the salt concentration of the amplification product for detection by the detection section (D _a , D _b , D _c ) Reagents such as are retained in advance. Here, the amplification product and the reagent are mixed.

In the detection unit (D _a , D _b , D _c ), for example, an apparatus for detecting a target nucleic acid such as a DNA chip in which a nucleic acid probe is immobilized on a substrate is provided.

Pump unit (P), sample chamber unit (S), amplification chamber unit (A _a , A _b , A _c ), sample holding chamber unit (M _a , M _b , M _c ), detection unit (D _a , D _b , D _c ) are in communication with each other as shown in FIG.

The pump part (P) is connected to the sample chamber part (S) via a flow path. The sample chamber section (S) is connected to three amplification chamber sections (A _a , A _b , A _c ) by three flow paths. Each amplification chamber section (A _a , A _b , A _c ) is connected to three sample holding chamber sections (M _a , M _b , M _c ) via flow paths. Each sample holding chamber section (M _a , M _b , M _c ) is connected to three detection sections (D _a , D _b , D _c ) via flow paths. That is, a plurality of amplification chamber section _{(A a, A b, A} c) a nucleic acid sample is amplified by, without merging, each discrete detector _{(D a, D b, D} c) is supplied to the detection It becomes the composition which is done.

Moreover, since the flow path from the detection part ( _Da , _Db , _Dc ) comprises an annular flow path, it joins and reaches a pump part (P). Valve parts (D _a , D _b , D _c ) for switching the opening / closing of the flow paths are provided in the middle of the flow paths connected to the detection parts (D _a , D _b , D _c ), respectively.

The pump unit (P), the sample chamber unit (S), the amplification chamber unit (A _a ), the sample holding chamber unit (M _a ), and the detection unit (D _a ) communicate with each other in a ring shape by a flow path. ing. Similarly, the pump unit (P), the sample chamber unit (S), the amplification chamber unit (A _b ), the sample holding chamber unit (M _b ), and the detection unit (D _b ) are mutually annular by a flow path. Communicating with Similarly, the pump unit (P), the sample chamber unit (S), the amplification chamber unit (A _c ), the sample holding chamber unit (M _c ), and the detection unit (D _c ) communicate in a ring shape. .

Further, each amplification chamber section (A _a , A _b , A _c ) is different from the flow path connected to each sample chamber section (S) and sample holding chamber section (M _a , M _b , M _c ). The flow paths are connected, and further, the flow paths merge to join the flow path between the detection unit (D _a , D _b , D _c ) and the pump unit (P) at the junction (A). . This channel is referred to as a bypass channel (A) (reflux channel). The bypass channel (A) is provided with a valve portion (A) for switching between opening and closing of the channel.

In addition, each sample holding chamber (M _a , M _b , M _c ) has a different channel from the channel connected to the amplification chamber (A) and the detection unit (D _a , D _b , D _c ). Are connected to each other, and these flow paths join the flow paths between the detection section (D _a , D _b , D _c ) and the pump section (P) at the junction (M _a , M _b , M _c ). ing. These channels are referred to as bypass channels (M _a , M _b , M _c ) (reflux channels). Valve unit for switching between opening / closing of each of the flow paths _{(M a, M b, M} c) are provided also in each pass passage _{(M a, M b, M} c).

Further, in this configuration, three amplification chamber parts (A _a , A _b , A _c ) are provided, and the flow path is branched into three according to the number of amplification chambers, and three sample holding chamber parts (M _a , M _b) , M _c ) and three detectors (D _a , D _b , D _c ). However, the number of amplification chambers only needs to be plural, and is not limited to three. Further, the sample holding chamber and the detection unit need only correspond to the number of amplification chambers, and are not limited to three.

As described above, amplification reagents (primers, etc.) are held in advance in the amplification chamber sections (A _a , A _b , A _c ). Separate amplification products can be generated for each amplification chamber (A _a , A _b , A _c ), and the nucleic acid sequences (target nucleic acid sequences) of the amplification products can be made different. In that case, for example, detection unit in (D _a) to secure the probe DNA for detecting a target nucleic acid sequence amplified by the amplification chamber section (A _a), in the amplification chamber section in the detector (D _b) (A _b) The probe DNA for detecting the amplified target nucleic acid sequence is fixed, and the probe DNA for detecting the target nucleic acid sequence amplified in the amplification chamber (A _c ) may be fixed to the detection part (D _c ). .

As in the present configuration, amplification products (nucleic acid samples) amplified in a plurality of amplification chamber sections (A _a , A _b , A _c ) are not mixed with each other, and each detection section (D _a , D _{b is} individually separated _). , D _c ), the concentration of the amplification product is not diluted as compared with the case where the mixture of the amplification products (nucleic acid samples) is supplied to one detection unit. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a decrease in target nucleic acid concentration due to mixing. For example, when the volume of each amplification chamber part is equal, for example, when there are three amplification chamber parts, the target nucleic acid concentration is diluted to 1/3 when each amplification product (nucleic acid sample) is mixed. It will end up. On the other hand, when a detection unit is connected to each amplification chamber unit as in this embodiment, it is possible to prevent a decrease in target nucleic acid concentration due to merging. Therefore, in principle, the detection sensitivity can be improved three times.

In this configuration, in order to mix the amplification product with a buffer or the like, the sample holding chamber (M _a , M _b , M _c ), the bypass channel (M _a , M _b , M _c ), the valve (M _a , M _c ) _b , M _c ) are arranged in the flow path between each amplification chamber section (A _a , A _b , A _c ) and each detection section (D _a , D _b , D _c ). For example, when a buffer or reagent is mixed, it may be provided as necessary. When the compound concentration of the liquid containing the amplification product is adjusted by dissolving a compound such as a solid salt in the solution, the detection unit (D _a , D _c ) is _supplied from the amplification chamber unit (A _a , A _b , A _c ). _b , D _c ) need only be held in the required amount of the compound in the flow path. In this case, the retention area of the compound to be dissolved is detected in the second channel (2A), the third channel (3A), the first channel (1A2) from the amplification chamber (A), Any of the first flow paths (1D1) to the part (D) may be used.

  The detection using this cassette is performed as follows.

<Detection procedure>
At the time of detection, a nucleic acid sample is first introduced from an insertion hole provided in the sample chamber section (S). Thereby, pretreatment is automatically performed on the nucleic acid sample introduced in the sample chamber section (S).

  Next, by supplying gas pressure from the pump part (P) to the sample chamber part (S) through the flow path, the nucleic acid sample in the sample chamber part (S) is discharged into the flow path.

The discharged nucleic acid sample is divided and supplied to three separate amplification chamber parts (A _a , A _b , A _c ) through three branched channels. (Hereinafter, “amplification chamber portions (A _a , A _b , A _c )” are referred to as “amplification chamber portions (A)”.) At this time, the valve portion (A) is opened and the valve portions (M _a , M _b , M _c ) and the valve parts (D _a , D _b , D _c ) are closed. The discharged nucleic acid sample is supplied to the amplification chamber section (A _a , A _b , A _c ) through the flow path. At this time, only the liquid nucleic acid sample enters the amplification chamber section (A), and only the gas pressure supplied from the pump section (P) flows through the bypass path (A) in the direction of the pump section (P).

  Next, amplification of the nucleic acid sample is performed in each amplification chamber section (A).

Next, the valve part (A) is closed, the valve part (M _a ) is opened, the valve parts (D _a , D _b , D _c ) are closed, and the gas pressure supplied by the pump part (P) is changed to the amplification chamber part ( To A _a ). The amplified nucleic acid sample (hereinafter referred to as “amplification product”) is discharged from the amplification chamber (A _a ), and the discharged amplification product is supplied to the reagent holding chamber (M _a ) through the flow path. .

Subsequently, the valve part (A) is closed, the valve part (M _b ) is opened, the valve parts (D _a , D _b , D _c ) are closed, and the gas pressure supplied by the pump part (P) is changed to the amplification chamber part (A _b ). The amplification product is discharged from the amplification chamber section (A _b ), and the discharged amplification product is supplied to the reagent holding chamber section (M _b ) through the flow path.

Subsequently, the valve part (A) is closed, the valve part (M _c ) is opened, the valve parts (D _a , D _b , D _c ) are closed, and the gas pressure supplied by the pump part (P) is changed to the amplification chamber part (A _c ). The amplification product is discharged from the amplification chamber section (A _c ), and the discharged amplification product is supplied to the reagent holding chamber section (M _c ) through the flow path.

When the amplification product moves from the amplification chamber portion to the sample holding chamber portion in this way, only the liquid amplification product remains in the sample holding chamber portion (M _a , M _b , M _c ) and from the pump portion (P). Only the supplied gas pressure passes through the bypass passages (M _a , M _b , M _c ) and recirculates in the direction of the pump part (P).

In each sample holding chamber (M _a , M _b , M _c ), the amplification product and the reagent held in advance in the sample holding chamber are mixed.

Subsequently, with the valve part (A) closed, the valve parts (M _a , M _b , M _c ) closed, and the valve parts (D _b , D _c ) closed, the valve part (D _a ) is opened. Similarly, by supplying the gas pressure supplied from the pump unit (P) to the reagent holding chamber unit (M _a ), the amplification product is supplied to the detection unit (D _a ).

Further, the valve part (A) is closed, the valve parts (M _a , M _b , M _c ) are closed, the valve parts (D _a , D _c ) are closed, and the valve part (D _b ) is opened. The amplification product is supplied to the detection unit (D _b ) by applying the gas pressure supplied by the pump unit (P) to the reagent holding chamber unit (M _b ).

Further, the valve part (A) is closed, the valve parts (M _a , M _b , M _c ) are closed, the valve parts (D _a , D _b ) are closed, and the valve part (D _c ) is opened. When the gas pressure supplied from the pump unit (P) is applied to the reagent holding chamber unit (M _c ), the amplification product is supplied to the detection unit (D _c ).

Hereinafter, the “detection unit (D _a , D _b , D _c )” is referred to as “detection unit (D)”.

  When the detection unit (D) is provided with a DNA chip, the nucleic acid sample and the nucleic acid probe undergo a hybridization reaction by placing the nucleic acid sample and the DNA chip under hybridization conditions.

Next, when the waste liquid (amplification product after hybridization) is discharged from the detection part (D _a , D _b , D _c ), the valve part (A) is closed and the valve part (M _a , M _b , M _c ) is closed, the valve parts (D _b , D _c ) are closed, the valve part (D _a ) is opened, and a gas pressure is applied from the pump part (P) to the detection part (D _a ), so that the detection part The waste liquid in (D _a ) flows back in the direction of the pump part (P). Subsequently, the valve part (D _a ) is closed, the valve part (D _b ) is opened, and gas pressure is supplied from the pump part (P), thereby discharging the waste liquid in the detection part (D _b ). Moreover, closing the valve section (D _b), opening the valve section (D _c), by supplying air pressure from the pump section (P), is possible to discharge the waste liquid in the detection section (D _c) I can do it.

  The flow paths connected to each detection unit merge to become one, and are finally connected to the pump unit (P). The gas pressure supplied from the waste liquid and the pump part (P) finally returns to the pump part (P).

By detecting the hybridization between the nucleic acid sample and the nucleic acid probe by a known method (fluorescence detection method, electrochemical detection method using an intercalating agent, etc.) by the detection unit (D), the target nucleic acid in the nucleic acid sample is detected. Detect presence.
<About sample chamber>
FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the sample chamber portion (S) of the nucleic acid detection cassette having the first configuration and its periphery.

  A plate-like member 211 having a front surface and a back surface has a first through hole (S) 212, a second through hole (S) 213, a first groove (S1) 214 on the front surface side, and a first through hole on the front surface side. A groove (S2) 215 and a second groove (S) 216 are provided on the back surface side.

  The surface and the opposing surface of the plate-like member are covered with a first sheet-like member 217 and a second sheet-like member 218. Regions 219 and 220 covering at least the first through hole (S) 212 of the first and second sheet-like members 217 and 218 are formed of a flexible material. The first sheet-like member 217 and the entire second sheet-like member 218 may be formed of a flexible material.

  The sample chamber portion (S) is defined by the first through hole (S) 212 being closed by the first and second sheet-like members 217 and 218. By covering the first groove (S1) 214 on the front surface side with the first sheet-like member 217, the first flow channel (1S1) which is the upper surface side flow channel is defined. By covering the first groove (S2) 215 on the front side with the first sheet-like member 217, the first flow path (1S2) which is the upper surface side flow path is defined. When the second groove (S) 216 on the opposite surface side is covered with the second sheet-like member 218, a second flow path (2S) which is a lower surface side flow path is defined. Further, the second through hole (S) 213 is covered with the first sheet-like member 217 and the second sheet-like member 218, thereby defining a third flow path (3S) which is a through flow path.

  A first channel (1S1) and a second channel (2S) are connected to the sample chamber section (S). The third channel (3S) is connected to the second channel (2S). The first channel (1S2) is connected to the third channel (3S). The first flow path (1S1) communicates with the pump part (P). The first channel (1S2) communicates with the detection unit (D).

  A region 219 that covers the first through hole (S) 212 of the first sheet-like member 217 by applying a pressing force from the outside is formed on the surface side of the first through hole (S) 212 of the sample chamber portion (S). The first flow path (1S1) is closed by pressing against the opening. Further, the first flow path (1S1) is opened by releasing the pressing force applied from the outside.

  Further, a region 220 that covers the first through hole (S) 212 of the second sheet-like member 218 by applying a pressing force from the outside is formed in the first through hole (S) 212 of the sample chamber portion (S). The second channel (2S) is closed by pressing against the opening on the opposite surface side. Further, the second flow path (2S) is opened by releasing the pressing force applied from the outside.

  It is possible to control the timing of movement of the nucleic acid sample by adjusting the timing for applying the pressing force to the first and second sheet-like members 217 and 218 from the outside and the timing for applying the gas pressure from the pump section (P). I can do it.

  In addition, in order to control the temperature of the nucleic acid sample, a heating element may be used to heat the reagent in the sample chamber (S) or the nucleic acid sample by using a heating element as a pressurizing member when applying a pressing force from the outside. Is possible. By applying pressure using heating elements from above and below the cassette, the heat treatment unit can be isolated, preventing unintentional outflow of steam and improving controllability of the reaction by heat treatment.

  In the sample chamber section (S), the nucleic acid sample is moved as follows.

  A nucleic acid sample is introduced from an insertion hole provided in the sample chamber section (S). At this time, the second flow path (2S) is closed by applying a pressing force from the outside and pressing the second sheet-like member 218 against the sample chamber section (S). After the nucleic acid sample is charged, the charging hole is sealed. After sealing, a pressing force is further applied from the outside, and the first sheet-like member 217 is pressed against the sample chamber section (S) to close the first flow path (1S1). At this time, a heating element may be used as a pressurizing member that applies pressure to the first and second sheet-like members, and the sample chamber section (S) may be heated from above and below.

  Next, the first flow path (1S1) and the second flow path (2S) are opened by releasing the pressing force to the first and second sheet-like members 217, 218. The gas pressure supplied by the pump unit (P) from the first channel (1S1) gives the nucleic acid sample the second channel (2S), the third channel (3S), and the first channel. It discharges via a flow path (1S2).

<Amplification chamber (A)>
FIG. 4A is a schematic cross section showing a sample chamber portion (S), an amplification chamber portion (A) (any one of the amplification chamber portions (A _a , A _b , A _c )) of the nucleic acid detection cassette and its periphery 4B is a cross-sectional view of the amplification chamber section (A) in a direction different from that in FIG. 4A. The same parts as those in FIG. 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals. Hereinafter, any one of the amplification chamber portions (A _a , A _b , A _c ) is referred to as “amplification chamber portion (A)”. Hereinafter, any one of the detection units (D _a , D _b , D _c ) is referred to as “detection unit (D)”. Hereinafter, any one of the valve portions (D _a , D _b , D _c ) is referred to as a “valve portion (D)”.

  The structure of the sample chamber section (S), the first flow path (1S1, 1S2), the second flow path (2S), the third flow path (3S), and the structure of the detection section (D) are shown in FIG. It is equivalent to the configuration of

  The plate-like member 211 is provided with a first through hole (A) 251 and a second through hole (A) 252. Further, a first groove (A1) 253 is provided on the surface side. The first groove (A1) 253 is provided in communication with the first groove (S2) 215. These may be the same groove. Furthermore, the 1st groove | channel (A2) 254 formed in the surface side and the 2nd groove | channel (A) 255 are provided in the opposing surface. Further, a first groove (A3) 258 is provided on the surface side.

  The surface and the opposing surface of the plate-like member 211 are covered with a first sheet-like member 217 and a second sheet-like member 218. Regions 256 and 257 that cover at least the first through holes (A) 251 of the first and second sheet-like members 217 and 218 are formed of a flexible material.

  The amplification chamber part (A) is defined by the first through hole (A) 251 being closed by the first and second sheet-like members 217 and 218. By covering the first groove (A1) 253 on the front surface side with the first sheet-like member 217, the first flow path (1A1) which is the upper surface side flow path is defined. This is a channel that is continuous with the first channel (1S2), and may be the same channel. By covering the first groove (A2) 254 on the front surface side with the first sheet-like member 217, the first flow channel (1A2) which is the upper surface flow channel is defined. By covering the first groove (A3) 258 on the surface side with the first sheet-like member 217, the first flow path (1A3) which is the upper surface side flow path is defined. When the second groove (A) 255 on the opposite surface side is covered with the second sheet-like member 218, a second flow path (2A) which is a lower surface side flow path is defined. Further, the second through hole (A) 252 is covered with the first sheet-like member 217 and the second sheet-like member 218, thereby defining a third flow path (3A) which is a through-hole flow path. It is done.

  The first flow path (1A1, 1A3) and the second flow path (2A) are connected to the amplification chamber section (A). The third channel (3A) is connected to the second channel (2A). The first channel (1A2) is connected to the third channel (3A). The first flow path (1A1) communicates with the pump part (P). The first channel (1A2) communicates with the detection unit (D). The first channel (1A3) is a bypass channel (A) (reflux channel) that joins at the junction (A) in the channel from the detection unit (D) to the pump unit (P).

  A valve section (A) that switches between opening and closing of the bypass flow path (A) is provided in the middle of the first flow path (1A3). The area | region which covers at least one part (equivalent to a valve | bulb part (A)) of the 1st flow path (1A3) 251 of the 1st sheet-like member 217 is formed with the flexible material. To close the valve portion (A), a pressing force is applied from the outside to the first sheet-like member 217 covering the first flow path (1A3), and the first sheet-like member 217 is moved to the first sheet-like member 217. This can be done by pressing the groove (A3) 258. The valve portion (A) is opened by releasing this pressing force.

  Further, a valve part (D) for switching the opening / closing of the flow path between the detection part (D) and the junction (A) is provided in the middle of the flow path from the detection part (D) to the junction (A). Yes. The area | region which covers at least one part (equivalent to valve | bulb part (D)) of the 1st flow path (1D2) of the 1st sheet-like member 217 is formed with the flexible material. Switching of the valve part (D) is performed by applying / releasing a pressing force from the outside to the first sheet-like member 217 covering the first flow path (1D2), similarly to the valve part (A). Can do.

  Further, a pressing force is applied from the outside, and the region 256 covering the first through hole (A) 251 of the first sheet-like member 217 is pressed against the opening on the surface side of the first through hole (A) 251. This prevents the connection between the amplification chamber section (A) and the first flow paths (1A1) and (1A3). Further, by releasing the pressing force applied from the outside, the amplification chamber section (A) and the first flow paths (1A1) and (1A3) are connected.

  Further, pressure is applied from the outside, and the region 257 covering the first through hole (A) 251 of the second sheet-like member 218 is pressed against the opening on the opposite surface side of the first through hole (A) 251. This prevents the connection between the amplification chamber section (A) and the second flow path (2A). Further, by releasing the pressure applied from the outside, the amplification chamber section (A) and the second flow path (2A) are connected. Timing for applying pressure to the first and second sheet-like members covering the sample chamber section (S) and amplification chamber section (A) from the outside, timing for applying gas pressure from the pump section (P), and valve section By adjusting the opening / closing timings of (A) and (D), the timing of nucleic acid sample movement can be controlled. Further, similarly to the sample chamber section (S), it is possible to perform the heat treatment in the amplification chamber by using a heating element as a pressurizing member when applying pressure from the outside.

  In the amplification chamber section (A), the nucleic acid sample is moved as follows.

  As described with reference to FIG. 3, the nucleic acid sample is discharged from the first channel (1S2) from the sample chamber section (S). At this time, the valve part (A) is opened and the valve part (D) is closed.

  Next, the nucleic acid sample is branched from the first channel (1S2 = 1A1) and supplied to each amplification chamber section (A). At this time, the second channel (2A) is blocked by pressing the second sheet-like member 218 against the amplification chamber (A). The gas pressure returns from the first channel (1A3) to the pump unit (P) through the bypass channel (A). Only the liquid nucleic acid sample flows into the amplification chamber (A) by gravity.

  Next, the first sheet-like member 217 is pressed against the amplification chamber section (A), and the first flow paths (1A1, 1A3) are sealed. Nucleic acid amplification is performed by using a heating element as a pressurizing member that applies pressure to the sheet-like member and heating the amplification chamber (A) from above and below.

  Next, the valve part (A) is closed and the valve part (D) is opened. The pressing force of the first and second sheet-like members 217 and 218 against the amplification chamber section (A) is released, and the first flow path (1A1, 1A3) and the second flow path (2A) are opened. Furthermore, by applying the gas pressure from the pump part (P) to the amplification chamber part (A) from the first path (1A1), the nucleic acid sample held in the amplification chamber part (A) is allowed to flow through the second flow path. From the path (2A), the liquid is discharged to the third flow path (3A) and the first flow path (1A2) and supplied to the detection unit (D).

<About sample holding chamber (M)>
FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram showing any one of sample holding chamber portions (M _a , M _b , M _c ) (hereinafter referred to as “sample holding chamber portion (M)”) of the nucleic acid detection cassette and its periphery. Sectional drawing and FIG. 5B are schematic sectional drawings in the direction different from FIG. 5A of the sample holding | maintenance chamber part (M). The same parts as those in FIGS. 3, 4A and 4B are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  The plate-like member 211 is provided with a first through hole (M) 261 and a second through hole (M) 262. Further, a first groove (M1) 263 is provided on the surface side. The first groove (M1) 263 is provided in communication with the first groove (A2) 254. These may be the same groove. Furthermore, the 1st groove | channel (M2) 264 formed in the surface side and the 2nd groove | channel (M) 265 are provided in the opposing surface. The sample holding chamber portion (M) is defined by the first through hole (M) 251 being closed by the first and second sheet-like members 217 and 218. When the first groove (M1) 263 on the front surface side is covered with the first sheet-like member 217, the first flow channel (1M1) which is the upper surface side flow channel is defined. This is a flow path communicating with the first flow path (1A2), and may be the same flow path. When the first groove (M2) 264 on the front surface side is covered with the first sheet-like member 217, the first flow channel (1M2) which is the upper surface side flow channel is defined. The first channel (1M3) is defined by covering the first groove (M3) 268 on the front surface side with the first sheet-like member 217. When the second groove (M) 265 on the opposite surface side is covered with the second sheet-like member 218, a second flow path (2M) which is a lower surface side flow path is defined. The second through hole (M) 262 is covered with the first sheet-like member 217 and the second sheet-like member 218, thereby defining a third flow path (3M) which is a through-hole flow path. It is done. Here, the sample holding chamber part (M) does not necessarily need to be configured by the through holes of the plate-like member 211. Even if the concave portion on the surface side of the plate-like member 211 is defined by being covered with the first sheet-like member 217, the concave portion on the opposite surface side of the plate-like member 211 is covered with the second sheet-like member 218. It may be determined depending on the situation.

  A first flow path (1M1, 1M3) and a second flow path (2M) are connected to the sample holding chamber section (M). The third channel (3M) is connected to the second channel (2M). The first channel (1M2) is connected to the third channel (3M). The first flow path (1M1) communicates with the amplification chamber section (A). The first channel (1M2) communicates with the detection unit (D). Further, the first flow path (1M3) is connected to the sample holding chamber section (M). The first channel (1M3) is a bypass channel (M) that joins at the junction (M) in the channel from the detection unit (D) to the pump unit (P).

  A valve section (M) for switching between opening and closing of the bypass flow path (M) is provided in the middle of the first flow path (1M3). The area | region which covers at least one part (equivalent to the valve | bulb part (M)) of the 1st flow path (1M3) of the 1st sheet-like member 217 is formed with the flexible material. To close the valve portion (M), a pressing force is applied from the outside to the first sheet-like member 217 covering the first flow path (1M3), and the first sheet-like member 217 is moved to the first sheet-like member 217. This can be done by pressing the groove (M3) 268. The valve portion (M) is opened by releasing this pressing force.

  Timing for applying pressure to the first and second sheet-like members covering the sample chamber section (S) and amplification chamber section (A) from the outside, timing for applying gas pressure from the pump section (P), and valve section By adjusting the opening / closing timings of (A), (M), and (D), the timing of nucleic acid sample movement can be controlled.

  The regions 266 and 267 covering at least the first through hole (M) 261 of the first and second sheet-like members 217 and 218 may or may not be formed of a flexible material.

  In this case, a pressing force is applied from the outside, and the region 266 covering the first through hole (M) 261 of the first sheet-like member 217 is pressed against the opening on the surface side of the first through hole (M) 261. As a result, the connection between the sample holding chamber (M) and the first flow paths (1M1) and (1M3) is blocked. Further, by releasing the pressing force applied from the outside, the amplification chamber section (M) and the first flow paths (1M1) and (1M3) are connected.

  Further, pressure is applied from the outside, and the region 267 covering the first through hole (M) 261 of the second sheet-like member 218 is pressed against the opening on the opposite surface side of the first through hole (M) 261. This prevents the connection between the holding chamber part (M) and the second flow path (2M). Further, by releasing the pressure applied from the outside, the sample holding chamber (M) and the second channel (2M) are connected.

  Similarly to the sample chamber section (S), the heat treatment in the sample holding chamber section (M) can be performed by using a heating element as a pressurizing member when applying pressure from the outside. By controlling the opening / closing of the flow path using such external pressing force together with the control of the pump part and the valve part, it is possible to prevent the liquid from flowing into the unintended flow path. It becomes possible.

  In the sample holding chamber section (M), the amplification product is moved as follows.

  The amplification product amplified in the amplification chamber section (A) releases the pressing force of the first and second sheet-like members 217 and 218, and the first flow path (1A1, 1A3) and the second flow path. (2A) is opened. The valve part (A) is closed and the valve part (M) is opened. Further, by applying the gas pressure from the pump part (P) to the amplification chamber part (A) from the first path (1A1), the amplification product held in the amplification chamber part (A) From (2A), it discharges to the 3rd channel (3A) and the 1st channel (1A2).

  The amplification product is supplied from the first flow path (1A2 = 1M1) to the sample holding chamber section (M). The gas pressure returns from the first flow path (1M3) to the pump section (P) via the bypass flow path (M). Only the liquid nucleic acid sample flows into the amplification chamber (M) by gravity. The inflowing nucleic acid sample is mixed with the reagent.

  Next, the valve part (M) is closed and the valve part (D) is opened. Further, by applying the gas pressure from the pump unit (P) to the sample holding chamber unit (M) from the first path (1M1), the amplification product held in the sample holding chamber unit (M) From the flow path (2M), it discharges to the 3rd flow path (3M) and the 1st flow path (1M2), and is supplied to a detection part (D).

FIG. 6 shows a schematic cross-sectional structure of the periphery of the detection unit (D) (any one of the detection units (D _a , D _b , D _c )) of the nucleic acid detection cassette.

  The plate-like member 211 is provided with a through-hole 300 having unevenness on the side surface. Further, a first groove (D1) 302 is provided on the front surface side, and a first groove (D2) 303 is provided on the front surface side.

  The surface of the plate member is covered with a first sheet member 217.

  The DNA chip 301 is fitted to the unevenness provided on the side surface of the detection part (D) through-hole 300 so as to block the through-hole. The DNA chip 301 includes a substrate on which a nucleic acid probe is immobilized. The DNA chip 301 may have a structure in which a metal electrode such as Au is disposed on a substrate and a nucleic acid probe is immobilized thereon. Further, a channel 304 having an inflow port and an outflow port is formed on the probe immobilization surface side so that a nucleic acid sample, a reagent such as a washing solution and an intercalating agent solution are exposed to the probe immobilization surface of the DNA chip 301. In order to form this flow path, a member 305 having a groove formed on the surface of the DNA chip 301 is laminated. Further, in order to control the temperature on the DNA chip 301, the surface opposite to the probe-immobilized surface is opened and exposed to the outside. The DNA chip 301 has a structure that can be temperature-controlled by a heating means or the like from the outside. In this example, the DNA chip 301 is installed in the through-hole of the plate-like member 211. However, a recess may be formed in the plate-like member, and the DNA chip 301 may be placed in the recess.

  Further, the first channel (1D1) which is the upper surface side channel is formed by covering the first groove (D1) 302 and the first groove (D2) 303 on the surface side with the first sheet-like member 217. Determined. When the first groove (D2) on the front surface side is covered with the first sheet-like member 217, the first flow path (1D2) which is the upper surface side flow path is defined. The first channel (1D1) is connected to the inlet of the channel 304. The first channel (1D2) is connected to the outlet of the channel 304.

  A reagent such as a nucleic acid sample solution or a cleaning solution or an intercalating agent solution described later flows out from the direction of the sample chamber (S) when the gas pressure from the pump unit (P) is applied to the first channel (1D1). Via, the flow channel 304 is supplied from the inflow port, filled in the flow channel 304 on the DNA chip and subjected to various reactions, and then discharged from the DNA chip through the outflow port. The first flow channel (1D2) It is discharged via.

FIG. 7 shows a plan view of the DNA chip 301 of any of the detection units (D _a , D _b , D _c ).

  In the DNA chip 1000 (301), a nucleic acid probe is immobilized on a predetermined spot 1002 on a substrate 1001. The predetermined spot may be a metal electrode such as Au. A channel 1003 having an inflow port and an outflow port is formed on the probe immobilization surface side so that a nucleic acid sample, a reagent such as a washing solution and an intercalating agent solution are exposed to the probe immobilization surface of the DNA chip 301. In order to form this flow path, members having grooves formed on the surface of the substrate 1001 are laminated. In this DNA chip structure, a meandering channel with one inlet and one outlet is formed on a substrate, and a sensor electrode is disposed on the sulfate channel.

In the example of FIG. 7, the example in which the DNA chip of each detection unit (D _a , D _b , D _c ) is provided on a separate substrate is shown, but the DNA chip of the detection unit (D _a , D _b , D _c ) A single DNA chip may be provided on the same substrate.

FIG. 8 shows a plan view of the DNA chip 301 of the detection unit (D _a , D _b , D _c ).

In the DNA chip 1004, a nucleic acid probe is immobilized on a predetermined spot 1006 of the substrate 1005. The predetermined spot may be a metal electrode such as Au. Further, channels 1007, 1008, and 1009 having an inlet and an outlet are formed on the probe fixing surface side of the DNA chip 301 on the probe fixing surface side. In order to form this flow path, members having grooves formed on the surface of the substrate 1004 are laminated. In this DNA chip structure, three flow paths, each having one inlet and one outlet, are formed on a substrate, sensor electrodes are arranged on each sulfate path, and each of the detection units (D _a , D _b , D _c ) and It has become.

  As described above, the nucleic acid detection cassette having the first configuration can form a closed reflux channel after the introduction of the nucleic acid sample, so that contamination of non-detection target nucleic acid molecules or leakage of the nucleic acid sample to the outside is possible. Can be prevented. Also, different types of liquids such as nucleic acid samples before amplification, amplification products, amplification products after mixing reagents, and waste liquid can be moved with good controllability according to the purpose for each type.

  Further, in this configuration, the amplification products amplified in the plurality of amplification chambers are not mixed with each other, but are separately supplied to different detection units, so that the concentration of the amplification product is not diluted. Therefore, a decrease in target nucleic acid concentration due to mixing of amplification products can be prevented. Thereby, detection sensitivity can be improved.

(Second configuration)
FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of the nucleic acid detection cassette having the second configuration.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the nucleic acid detection cassette of the second configuration is basically the same as the first configuration in that the cassette body further includes a cleaning liquid chamber part (B) and a waste liquid chamber part (W). Different. In the second configuration, an example in which both the cleaning liquid chamber section (B) and the waste liquid chamber section (W) are shown is shown, but a configuration having either one as necessary may be used.

  In the cleaning liquid chamber section (B), a cleaning liquid for cleaning the detection section (D), for example, the DNA chip, is held in advance after the hybridization reaction. Along with the addition of the cleaning liquid chamber part (B), this cassette has a flow path branched from the flow path between the pump part (P) and the sample chamber part (S), and the cleaning liquid chamber part (B) connected to this flow path. And a flow path connecting to the flow path between the sample chamber section (S) and the detection section (D). This cassette also has a valve section (S) for switching between opening and closing between the pump section (P) and the sample chamber section (S), and opening / closing between the pump section (P) and the cleaning liquid chamber section (B). It has the valve part (B) to switch.

The waste liquid chamber section (W) receives and holds the waste liquid such as the nucleic acid sample discharged from the detection section (D). The waste liquid chamber part (W) is provided between the detection part (D) and the pump part (P) through a flow path. The waste liquid chamber section (W), the detection section (D), the sample chamber section (S) or the cleaning liquid chamber section (B), and the pump section (P) communicate with each other in a ring shape by a flow path. In addition, a valve unit (S) that switches between opening and closing between the pump unit (P) and the sample chamber unit (S), and a valve that switches between opening and closing between the pump unit (P) and the cleaning liquid chamber unit (S). Part (B) is provided. Further, it is desirable that the gas passing through the bypass channel (A) or the bypass channel (M _a , M _b , M _c ) is discharged to the waste liquid chamber part (W). For this purpose, the bypass flow path (A) or the bypass flow paths (M _a , M _b , M _c ) are connected to the waste liquid chamber section (W). Alternatively, the waste liquid chamber section (W) is provided on the flow path from the confluence (A) to the pump section (P) or in the flow path from the confluence (M _a , M _b , M _c ) to the pump section (P). It may be done.

  The valve unit (B) includes a valve unit (S ′) that switches between opening and closing a flow path between the sample chamber unit (S) and the detection unit (D), and a cleaning liquid chamber unit (B) and a detection unit (D). A valve part (B ′) (not shown) for switching the opening / closing of the flow path between the two may be provided. Hereinafter, “valve part (S)” means “valve part (S)” or “valve part (S ′)”, and “valve part (B)” means “valve part (B)” or “ The valve part (B ′) ”is shown.

  The pump part (P), the sample chamber part (D) or the cleaning liquid chamber part (B), and the detection part (D) communicate with each other in a ring shape by a flow path.

  At the time of detection, the nucleic acid sample is transferred from the sample chamber section (S) to the detection section (D) through the amplification chamber section (A) and the sample holding chamber section (M) in the same procedure as in the first configuration. Is supplied. At that time, the gas discharged from the amplification chamber part (A) and the sample holding chamber part (M) is discharged to the waste liquid chamber part (W) through the bypass channel. In the detection part (D), the nucleic acid sample and the nucleic acid probe undergo a hybridization reaction. Next, the nucleic acid sample is discharged from the detection unit (D) by supplying gas pressure from the pump unit (P) to the detection unit (D) through the flow path. At this time, the valve part (S) is opened, and the valve part (B) is closed.

  Next, the cleaning liquid is supplied from the cleaning liquid chamber section (B) to the detection section (D), for example, to clean the DNA chip, and the cleaning liquid is discharged from the detection section (D). At this time, the valve part (S) is closed and the valve part (B) is opened. A gas pressure is applied from the pump part (P) to the cleaning liquid chamber part (B) through the flow path. Here, the nucleic acid sample is discharged from the detection unit (D) and then the valve unit (S) and the valve unit (B) are switched to supply the cleaning solution to the detection unit (D). The nucleic acid sample may be discharged simultaneously by opening the valve part (B) and supplying the cleaning liquid to the detection part (D).

  Next, as in the first configuration, the presence of the target nucleic acid in the nucleic acid sample is detected by detecting hybridization in the detection unit (D) by a known method.

  Waste liquids such as nucleic acid samples and cleaning liquid discharged from the detection part (D) in the direction of the pump part (P) flow into and are retained in the waste liquid chamber part (W). The gas pressure supplied from the pump part (P) recirculates in the direction of the pump part (P).

<About the cleaning liquid chamber (B)>
10A and 10B show a schematic cross-sectional structure around the cleaning liquid chamber portion (B) of the nucleic acid detection cassette having the second configuration. 10A and 10B have the same structure except for a part thereof, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. The peripheral structure such as the sample chamber section (S) may be the same as that of the first configuration. The same parts as those in the first configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  The plate-like member 211 has a first through hole (B) 221, a second through hole (B) 222, a first groove (B1) 223 on the surface side, and a first groove (B2) 224 on the surface side. And the 2nd groove | channel (B) 225 is provided in the opposing surface.

  The cleaning liquid chamber portion (B) is defined by the first through hole (B) 221 being closed by the first and second sheet-like members 217 and 218. By covering the first groove (B1) 223 on the front surface side with the first sheet-like member 217, the first flow path (1B1) which is the upper surface side flow path is defined. By covering the first groove (B2) 224 on the front surface side with the first sheet-like member 217, the first flow channel (1B2) which is the upper surface side flow channel is defined. When the second groove (B) 225 on the opposite surface side is covered with the second sheet-like member 218, a second flow path (2B) that is a lower surface side flow path is defined. Further, the second through hole (B) 222 is covered with the first sheet-like member 217 and the second sheet-like member 218, whereby a third flow path (3B) which is a through-hole flow path is defined. It is done. As shown in FIG. 10A, the cross-sectional area of the third flow path (3B) may be uniform along the flow path direction, or the cross-sectional area increases from the middle on the surface side as shown in FIG. 10B. It may be. As shown in FIG. 10B, an unintended phenomenon in which the cleaning liquid retained in the chamber flows out of the chamber due to the capillary action of the flow path by adopting the flow path structure having a large cross-sectional area on the surface side. Can be prevented. The cleaning liquid chamber part (B) does not necessarily need to be configured by the through holes of the plate-like member 211. Even if the concave portion on the surface side of the plate-like member 211 is defined by being covered with the first sheet-like member 217, the concave portion on the opposite surface side of the plate-like member 211 is covered with the second sheet-like member 218. It may be determined depending on the situation.

  The first flow path (1B1) and the second flow path (2B) are connected to the cleaning liquid chamber section (B). The third channel (3B) is connected to the second channel (2B). The first channel (1B2) is connected to the third channel (3B). The first flow path (1B1) communicates with the pump part (P). The first channel (1B2) communicates with the detection unit (D).

  In the middle of the first flow path (1B1), a valve portion (B) for switching between opening and closing of the flow path is provided. The area | region which covers at least one part (equivalent to the valve | bulb part (B)) of the 1st flow path (1B1) of the 1st sheet-like member 217 is formed with the flexible material. In order to close the valve portion (B), a pressing force is applied from the outside to the first sheet-like member 217 covering the first flow path (1B1), and the first sheet-like member 217 is moved to the first. This is performed by pressing the groove (B1) 223. Further, the valve portion (B) is opened by releasing this pressing force.

  The valve portion (S) may have the same configuration.

  The cleaning liquid is moved as follows.

  The cleaning liquid is held in advance in the cleaning liquid chamber (B). At this time, the valve portion (B) is closed.

  Next, the valve part (S) is closed and the valve part (B) is opened. The gas pressure from the pump part (P) is given to the cleaning liquid chamber part (B) through the first flow path (1B1). The cleaning liquid is discharged through the second flow path (2B), the third flow path (3B), and the first flow path (1B2), and is supplied to the detection unit (D).

  The timing of supplying the cleaning liquid can be controlled by adjusting the timing of applying the gas pressure from the pump unit (P) and the timing of opening / closing the valve units (S) and (B) as described above.

  Note that a region covering at least the first through hole (B) 221 of the first and second sheet-like members 217 and 218 is made of a flexible material, a pressing force is applied from the outside, and the first sheet-like member 217 is moved. By pressing against the opening on the surface side of the first through hole (B) 221, the first flow path (1B1) can be closed. Further, the first flow path (1B1) can be opened by releasing the pressing force. Further, the second flow path (2B) is closed by applying a pressing force from the outside and pressing the second sheet-like member 218 against the opening on the opposite surface side of the first through hole (B) 221. Can do. Further, the second flow path (2B) can be opened by releasing the pressing force.

<About waste liquid chamber (W)>
FIG. 11 shows a schematic cross-sectional structure around the waste liquid chamber (W) of the nucleic acid detection cassette of the second configuration. In addition, each part other than the waste liquid chamber part (W) and its peripheral structure may be the same as the first and second configurations. The same parts as those in the first configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  The plate-like member 211 is provided with a first through hole (W) 231. Further, a first groove (W1) 232 is formed on the surface side of the plate-like member 211, and a first groove (W2) 233 is formed on the surface side.

The waste liquid chamber portion (W) is defined by the first through hole (W1) 231 being closed by the first sheet-like member 217 and the second sheet-like member 218. Further, the first channel (1W1) which is the upper surface side channel is defined by covering the first groove (W1) 232 on the surface side with the first sheet-like member. By covering the first groove (W2) 233 on the surface side with the first sheet-like member 217, the first flow path (1W2) which is the upper surface side flow path is defined. Further, the bypass flow paths (A, M _a , M _b , M _c ) are also connected to the waste liquid chamber section (W) by other upper flow paths (not shown).

  The waste liquid chamber section (W) does not necessarily need to be configured by the through holes of the plate-like member 211. Even if the concave portion on the surface side of the plate-like member 211 is defined by being covered with the first sheet-like member 217, the concave portion on the opposite surface side of the plate-like member 211 is covered with the second sheet-like member 218. It may be determined depending on the situation.

  A first flow path (1W1) and a first flow path (1W2) are connected to the waste liquid chamber section (W).

  The movement of the waste liquid is performed as follows.

  In the waste liquid chamber part (W), the waste liquid from the detection part (D) flows in through the first flow path (1W1) by the gas pressure supplied by the pump part (P). Although the waste liquid is held in the waste liquid chamber section (W) by gravity, the gas pressure is discharged from the first flow path (1W1) to the pump section through the first flow path (1W2).

  Since the cassette of the second configuration can form a closed reflux channel after the introduction of the nucleic acid sample, it can prevent contamination of non-target nucleic acid molecules and leakage of the nucleic acid sample to the outside. it can. Moreover, the nucleic acid sample, the washing liquid, and the waste liquid can be held and moved with good controllability according to the purpose for each type. In addition, since a flow path for inflow and outflow of liquid is formed in the upper part of the waste liquid chamber section (W), the liquid and gas are separated, only the liquid is held in the chamber, and only the gas is pumped. It can be discharged in the (P) direction. In addition to the operational effects of the cassette of the first configuration, the second configuration of the cassette can hold and move liquids of different types such as waste liquid and cleaning liquid with high controllability depending on the purpose. Further, since a flow path for inflow and outflow of liquid is formed in the upper part of the waste liquid chamber section (W), the liquid and gas are separated, only the liquid is held in the chamber, and only the gas is discharged. I can do it.

  FIG. 9 shows a functional block diagram in which the valve portion (S) is installed in the flow path connected to the sample chamber portion (S). However, the sample chamber portion (S) is pushed from the outside. By applying pressure, it is possible to close the first channel (1S1) that is the upper surface side channel and the second channel (2S) that is the lower surface side channel. That is, since the sample chamber part (S) itself functions as a valve, it is not always necessary to include the valve part (S) separately.

(Third configuration)
FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram of the nucleic acid detection cassette having the third configuration.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the nucleic acid detection cassette of the third configuration is fundamentally different from the second configuration in that the cassette body further includes an intercalating agent chamber (I).

  The intercalating agent solution is held in the intercalating agent chamber section (I). The intercalating agent solution is used when the hybridization between the nucleic acid sample and the nucleic acid probe is detected by an electrochemical detection method using the DNA chip of the detection unit (D). The intercalating agent is a substance that specifically binds to a double-stranded nucleic acid and causes an electrochemical redox reaction. In the electrochemical detection method, an intercalating agent solution is supplied after a hybridization reaction between a nucleic acid sample and a nucleic acid probe. The presence of the target nucleic acid can be detected by detecting an electrochemical signal from the intercalating agent bound to the double-stranded nucleic acid.

  Along with the addition of the intercalating agent chamber part (I), the cassette is divided into a flow path branched from the flow path between the pump part (P) and the sample chamber part (S), and the intercalating agent connected to this flow path. It has a channel connected to the chamber (I) and the intercalating agent chamber (I), and joined to the channel between the sample chamber (S) and the detector (D). The cassette also has a valve part (I) for switching between opening / closing between the pump part (P) and the intercalating agent chamber part (I).

  The nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. 12 has a valve part (I) for switching between opening / closing between the pump part (P) and the intercalating agent chamber part (I). Instead of the valve part (I), a valve part (I ′) (not shown) for switching the opening / closing of the flow path between the insertion agent / chamber part (I) and the detection part (D) may be used. Hereinafter, “valve part (I)” means “valve part (I)” or “valve part (I ′)”.

  The pump section (P), the sample chamber section (D), the cleaning liquid chamber section (B) or the intercalating agent chamber section (I), and the detection section (D) communicate with each other in a ring shape by a flow path.

  In detection, first, a nucleic acid sample is supplied from the sample chamber section (S) to the detection section (D) in the same procedure as in the second configuration, and the nucleic acid sample undergoes a hybridization reaction with the nucleic acid probe. The sample is discharged from the detection unit (D). At this time, the valve portion (I) is closed.

  Next, in the same procedure as in the second configuration, the cleaning liquid is supplied from the cleaning liquid chamber section (B) to the detection section (D), for example, the DNA chip is cleaned, and the cleaning liquid is discharged from the detection section (D). . At this time, the valve portion (I) is closed.

  Next, the intercalating agent solution is supplied from the intercalating agent chamber part (I) to the detection part (D). At this time, the valve part (S) and the valve part (B) are closed, and the valve part (I) is opened. Further, a gas pressure is applied from the pump part (P) to the intercalating agent chamber part (I) through the channel. The supplied insertion agent binds to the double-stranded nucleic acid on the DNA chip.

  Next, the presence of the target nucleic acid in the nucleic acid sample is detected by detecting the hybridization reaction in the detection section (D) by an electrochemical detection method.

  Finally, the nucleic acid sample and the cleaning liquid discharged from the detection unit (D) are discharged to the waste liquid chamber unit (W). The gas pressure supplied from the pump unit (P) flows back from the detection unit (D) to the pump unit (P) through the waste liquid chamber unit (W).

  FIG. 37 shows a schematic cross-sectional structure around the insertion agent chamber (I) of the nucleic acid detection cassette of the third configuration. In addition, each part other than the insertion agent chamber part (I) and its peripheral structure may be the same as the first and second configurations. The same parts as those in the first and second configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  The plate-like member 211 has a first through hole (I) 241, a second through hole (I) 242, a first groove (I1) 243 on the surface side, and a first groove (I2) 244 on the surface side. , And a second groove (I) 245 is provided on the opposing surface.

  The insertion agent chamber portion (I) is defined by the first through hole (I) 241 being closed by the first and second sheet-like members 217 and 218. By covering the first groove (I1) 243 on the front side with the first sheet-like member 217, the first flow path (1I1) which is the upper surface side flow path is defined. By covering the first groove (I2) 244 on the surface side with the first sheet-like member 217, the first flow path (1I2) which is the upper surface side flow path is defined. When the second groove (I) 245 on the opposite surface side is covered with the second sheet-like member 218, a second channel (2I) which is a lower surface side channel is defined. The second through hole (I) 242 is covered with the first sheet-like member 217 and the second sheet-like member 218, thereby defining a third flow path (3I) that is a through-hole flow path. It is done. The intercalating agent chamber (I) is not necessarily constituted by the through hole of the plate-like member 211. Even if the concave portion on the surface side of the plate-like member 211 is defined by being covered with the first sheet-like member 217, the concave portion on the opposite surface side of the plate-like member 211 is covered with the second sheet-like member 218. It may be determined depending on the situation.

  A first flow path (1I1) and a second flow path (2I) are connected to the intercalating agent chamber (I). The third channel (3I) is connected to the second channel (2I). The first channel (1I2) is connected to the third channel (3I). The first flow path (1I1) communicates with the pump part (P). The first channel (1I2) communicates with the detection unit (D).

  In the middle of the first channel (1I1), a valve unit (I) for switching between opening and closing of the channel is provided. The valve part (I) may have the same configuration as the valve part (B) shown in the third embodiment. The valve portion (I) is closed by applying a pressing force from the outside and pressing the first sheet-like member 217 against the first groove (I) or the through hole (I). Further, the valve portion (I) is opened by releasing this pressing force.

  The transfer of the intercalating agent is performed as follows.

  The intercalating agent solution is held in advance in the intercalating agent chamber (I). At this time, the valve portion (I) is closed.

  Next, the valve part (S) and the valve part (B) are closed, the valve part (I) is opened, and the gas pressure from the pump part (P) passes through the first flow path (1I1) and the insertion agent chamber. Given to part (I). The intercalating agent solution is discharged through the second channel (2I), the third channel (3I), and the first channel (1I2), and is supplied to the detection unit (D).

  As described above, by adjusting the timing for applying the gas pressure from the pump unit (P) and the timing for opening / closing the valve units (S), (B), (I), the nucleic acid sample, the washing solution, The timing of the intercalator solution supply can be controlled.

  In addition, the area | region which covers at least 1st through-hole (I) 241 of the 1st and 2nd sheet-like members 217 and 218 is made into a flexible material, a pressing force is given from the outside, and the 1st sheet-like member 217 is attached. The first flow path (1I1) can be closed by pressing against the opening on the surface side of the first through hole (I) 241. Further, the first flow path (1I1) can be opened by releasing the pressing force. Further, the second flow path (2I) is closed by applying a pressing force from the outside and pressing the second sheet-like member 218 against the opening on the opposite surface side of the first through hole (I) 241. Can do. Further, the second flow path (2I) can be opened by releasing the pressing force.

  By controlling the opening / closing of the flow path using the external pressing force in combination with the control of the pump part and the valve part, it is possible to prevent the liquid from flowing into the unintended flow path. It becomes possible.

  It is also possible to perform heat treatment in the intercalating agent chamber by using a heating element as a pressurizing member when applying pressure from the outside. By applying pressure using heating elements from above and below the cassette, the heat treatment unit can be isolated, preventing unintended vapor outflow and improving reaction controllability.

  In addition to the operational effects of the second configuration, the third configuration cassette can move different types of liquid such as an intercalating agent solution with good controllability according to the purpose for each type.

FIG. 12 shows a functional block diagram in which the valve section (S) is installed in the flow path connected to the sample chamber section (S). However, the sample chamber section (S) is pushed from the outside. By applying pressure, it is possible to close the first channel (1S1) that is the upper surface side channel and the second channel (2S) that is the lower surface side channel. That is, since the sample chamber part (S) itself functions as a valve, it is not always necessary to include the valve part (S) separately.
(First embodiment)
Below, the structural example of a nucleic acid detection cassette is shown.

13 and 14 are a perspective top view and a bottom view schematically showing the nucleic acid detection cassette 100 shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 12 and the schematic perspective view of FIG. However, the sample holding chamber portion (M _a , M _b , M _c ), the valve portion (M _a , M _b , M _c ) and the bypass channel (M _a , M _b , M _c ) shown in FIG. 12 are not provided. Absent. In FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, the through-holes penetrating from the upper surface to the lower surface are defined in the chamber and are all indicated by solid lines. In FIG. 13, the flow path (first flow path) formed on the upper surface side is indicated by a solid line, and the flow path (second flow path) formed on the lower surface side is indicated by a broken line. Similarly to the flow path by the through hole (third flow path), in FIG. 14, the flow path formed on the lower surface side is indicated by a solid line, and the flow path formed on the upper surface side is indicated by a broken line. . As will be described later, the sample, the cleaning liquid, or the intercalating agent always flows out from the lower surface side flow channel that directly communicates with the corresponding chamber, and is always discharged from the upper surface side flow channel to the other chambers or detection units. . Therefore, in a process in which no gas pressure is applied, the sample, the cleaning liquid, or the insertion agent is retained in the lower surface side or the lower surface side flow path of the corresponding chamber.

The nucleic acid detection cassette 100 includes a sample chamber section (S) 11 for injecting a nucleic acid sample. A position 401 corresponding to the sample chamber section (S) 11 is opened in the flexible sheet 2, and a nucleic acid sample is injected from the opening 401, and then sealed with a seal 402 or the like. Here, in FIG. 1, the seal 402 is illustrated as a separate part. However, when the seal 402 is partially connected to the detection cassette 100 and partially integrated, the positioning of the opening 401 and the seal 402 is ensured. From the viewpoint of sex. The sample chamber section (S) 11 is connected to the valve section (S) 17a via the upper surface side flow path (1S1), and the valve 17a (S) is connected to the pump section (P ) 16. Next, the sample chamber portion (S) 11 is opened, the pump portion (P) -waste liquid chamber portion (W) is closed by the valve 17a, and the pump portion (P) -cleaning liquid chamber portion (B) is closed by the valve portion 17c. The pump part (P) and the intercalating agent chamber part (I) are closed by the valve part 15b, the valve parts (D _a , D _b , D _c ) 17f, 17g, 17h are closed, the amplification chamber part ( A _a , A _b , A _c ) When the pump part (P) 16 is operated in a state in which the lower surface side flow path (2A) of 12a, 12b, 12c is closed and the valve part (A) 17d is opened, the sample chamber Pressure is applied to the sample in the section (S) 11, and the sample is divided into three on the lower surface side flow path (2S) of the sample chamber section (S) 11 communicated with the amplification chamber sections 12a, 12b, and 12c. leak.

These three samples are respectively returned from the lower surface side flow path (2S) to the upper surface side flow path (1S2) through the through passage (3S) and through the upper surface side flow path (1A1) to the amplification chamber portions 12a to 12c. To be supplied. The amplification chamber parts (A _a , A _b , A _c ) 12a to 12c are communicated with the valve part (A) 17d through the upper surface side flow paths (1A3), respectively. In a state where the valve portion (A) 17d is opened, the gas pressure supplied to the amplification chamber portions (A _a , A _b , A _c ) 12a to 12c is discharged into the waste liquid via the valve portion (A) 17d. The chamber part (W) 18 is evacuated, and only the liquid nucleic acid sample is supplied into the amplification chamber part (A _a , A _b , A _c ) according to gravity. Further, the upper chamber side flow paths (1A1, 1A3) of the amplification chamber sections (A) 12a to 12c are closed, and the amplification chamber sections (A _a , A _b , A _c ) are sealed, respectively. In the parts (A) 12a to 12c, each of the three samples is subjected to nucleic acid amplification.

Next, the valve part (A) 17d is closed, and the pump part (P) 16 is opened while the upper surface side flow paths (1A1, 1A3) and the lower surface side flow path (2A) of the amplification chamber part (A) 12a are opened. When operated, the three samples in the amplification chamber section 12a are supplied to the lower surface side flow path (2A) by the gas pressure supplied to the amplification chamber section (A _a ) 12a. The lower surface side flow path is communicated with the upper surface side flow path (1A2) via the through passage (3A), and is communicated with the detection unit (D _a ) 19a via the upper surface side flow path (1A2 = 1D1). After the sample in the amplification chamber section 12a is supplied to the detection section (D _a ) 19a, the upper surface side flow path (1A1, 1A3) and the lower surface side flow path (2A) of the amplification chamber section (A _a ) 12a are closed, By operating the pump part (P) 16 in the same manner with the upper surface side flow path (1A1, 1A3) and the lower surface side flow path (2A) of the amplification chamber part (A _b ) 12b opened, this time, the amplification chamber part (A _b ) part (a _b) samples in 12b detector _(D b) can be fed to 19 _b. The sample in the amplification chamber section (A _c ) 12c can be supplied to the detection section (D _c ) 19c by the same operation. The detectors (D _a , D _b , D _c ) 19 a to 19 _c are incorporated and fixed in the cassette body 1.

The detection units (D _a , D _b , D _c ) 19a to 19c communicate with a cleaning liquid chamber unit (B) 14 for supplying a cleaning liquid and an intercalating agent chamber unit (I) 15a for supplying an intercalating agent. When the pressure in the cleaning liquid chamber part (B) 14 is increased, the cleaning liquid in the cleaning liquid chamber part (I) 14 passes through the lower surface side flow path (2B) and passes through the through hole (3B). 1B2), discharged from the upper surface side flow path (1B2) to the detection unit (D) 19 and supplied to the detection unit (D) 19. Similarly, when the pressure in the intercalating agent chamber (I) 15a is increased, the intercalating agent in the intercalating agent chamber (I) 15a is supplied to the through hole (3I) via the lower surface side channel (2I). The liquid is discharged from the upper surface side flow path (1I2) and supplied to the detection unit (D) 19. The intercalating agent chamber part (I) 15a and the cleaning liquid chamber part (B) 14 are connected to the valve part (B) 17c and the valve part (I) 15b, and the valve part (B) 17c and the valve part (I) 15b The pump part (P) 16 is selectively communicated. That is, with the valve portion (D) 17f opened, the sample chamber portion (S) 11 is closed, and the amplification chamber portions (A _a , A _b , A _c ) 12a to 12c and the valve portion (I) 15b are closed. Then, the cleaning liquid chamber section (B) 14 is communicated with the pump section (P) 16 by opening the valve section (B) 17c, and when the pump section (P) 16 is operated, the cleaning liquid chamber section (B) 14 is operated. The internal pressure is increased, and the cleaning liquid is discharged from the upper surface side flow path (1B2) and supplied to the detection unit (D) 19. Further, with the valve part (D) 17f open, the sample chamber part (S) 11 closed, and the amplification chamber parts (A) 12a to 12c closed, the valve part (B) 17c is closed and the valve part (I ) By opening 15b, the intercalating agent chamber part (I) 15a communicates with the pump part (P) 16, and when the pump part (P) 16 is operated, the internal pressure of the intercalating agent chamber part (I) 15a increases. Then, the intercalating agent is discharged from the upper surface side flow path (1I2) and supplied to the detection units (D _a , D _b , D _c ) 19a to 19c.

The detection parts (D _a , D _b , D _c ) 19a to 19c are connected to the waste liquid chamber part (W through the upper surface side flow path (1D2) and the valve parts (D _a , D _b , D _c ) 17f, 17g, 17h. ) 18. Accordingly, the valve portions (D) 17f, 17g, and 17h are opened, and the gas pressure is applied to the flow path in the detection portion 19 (D), whereby the liquid in the detection portion (D) 19 becomes waste liquid chamber portion as waste liquid. (W) discharged to 18. The valve part (S) 17a provided between the sample chamber part (S) 11 and the pump part (P) 16 is provided with a waste liquid chamber part (W) via the lower surface side flow path, the through hole and the upper surface side flow path. 18 is connected.

The sample chamber section (S) 11 is formed as a through-hole in the plate-shaped cassette body, and is shaved so as to define the cylindrical side wall surface of the sample chamber section (S) 11 around the sample chamber section (S) 11. The etched portion 20 is formed. The excavation part 20 is formed so as to divide between the amplification chamber parts (A _a , A _b , A _c ) 12 a, 12 b, and 12 c, and the sample chamber part (S) 11 is formed on the remaining bottom part. A lower surface side flow path (2S) that communicates with the amplification chamber portions (A _a , A _b , A _c ) 12a, 12b, 12c is formed. When the sample chamber portion (S) into which the nucleic acid sample has been injected is heated, the dugout portion 20 has an adjacent amplification chamber portion (A _a , A _b , A _c ) 12a in which the reagent enzyme is held, The heat is prevented from entering the 12b and 12c. Further, it is preferable that the dug portion 20 is also formed around the amplification chamber portions (A) 12a, 12b, and 12c. In this case, when the amplification chamber parts (A _a , A _b , A _c ) 12a, 12b, 12c are heated, the dug part 20 includes the mixing chamber part (M) 13, the cleaning liquid chamber part (B ) 14, the insertion agent chamber part (I) 15a and the detection part (D) 19 are prevented from entering the heat. From the viewpoint of heat conduction, the thickness of the walls constituting the sample chamber section (S) 11 and the amplification chamber sections (A _a , A _b , A _c ) 12a, 12b, 12c is within a range where mechanical strength can be maintained. It is preferable to be as thin as possible. The thickness of the wall is set to, for example, 2 mm or less, more preferably 1 mm or less.

The detection units (D _a , D _b , D _c ) 19a to 19c include, for example, DNA chips (not shown). It may be a current detection type or a fluorescence detection type. A current detection type DNA detection method is known from Japanese Patent 2573443. A nucleic acid detection substrate for hybridization reaction and nucleic acid detection reaction is mounted. An Au individual electrode is arranged on the nucleic acid detection substrate, and a nucleic acid probe DNA is immobilized on each Au individual electrode. A common electrode such as a counter electrode or a reference electrode is arranged through a detection space (reaction part) in which the probe DNA is arranged, and a voltage is applied between the common electrode and the individual electrode in a state where the insertion space is filled in the detection space. The target DNA is specified by detecting that an electric current has flowed through the individual electrodes. Of course, the DNA chip also has a hermetically sealed structure, and a flow path is formed on the substrate of the DNA chip, and the sample chamber part (S) 11, the cleaning liquid chamber part (B) 14, and the intercalating agent chamber part (I) 15a. It has a port that leads to An individual electrode and a common electrode are arranged in the flow path in the DNA chip, and a liquid is sent over the individual electrode and the common electrode. The wiring of the DNA chip is connected to the individual electrode and the common electrode, and is also connected to an electrode pad (not shown). The electrode pads are arranged so as to be exposed on the nucleic acid detection cassette 100, and are contact-connected to the electrode connector on the nucleic acid detection device side when current is detected.

  In this specification, description of the details of the current detection type gene detection method is omitted. For a more detailed explanation, see USP 5,776,672 patented on July 7, 1998 and USP 5,972,692 patented on October 26, 1999 (both Koji Hashimoto et. Al and Assignee Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba) and corresponding Japanese patents. See 2573443. The description of the specification of this US patent is incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, for a current detection type DNA chip measuring device, refer to Japanese Patent Application No. 2002-223393 or Japanese Patent Application No. 2003-200440.

  The nucleic acid detection cassette 100 is attached to the nucleic acid detection apparatus, and sample pretreatment and inspection are performed in the procedure described later. The nucleic acid detection apparatus includes a driving mechanism corresponding to each part of the nucleic acid detection cassette 100 in FIG. It is provided as shown. That is, the nucleic acid detection device includes a pump mechanism 26 corresponding to the pump unit 16. As described above, the pump unit 16 is configured by the through holes provided in the plate member 1 and the flexible members 2 and 3 covering the through holes. The pump mechanism 16 for operating the pump unit 16 is flexible. This is realized as a press mechanism for pressing the conductive film. The nucleic acid detection device includes valve mechanisms 27a, 27b, 27c, 27d, 27e, 27f, 27g, and 27h corresponding to the valves 17a, 17b, 17c, 17d, 17e, 17f, 17g, and 17h. The valves 17a, 17b, 17c, 17d, 17e, 17f, 17g, and 17h are composed of recesses provided in the plate member 1 and flexible members 2 and 3 that cover the recesses. The valves 17a, 17b, 17c, The valve mechanisms 27a, 27b, 27c, 27d, 27e, 27f, 27g, and 27h that control the opening and closing of 17d, 17e, 17f, 17g, and 17h close the flow path by pressing the flexible members 2 and 3 into the recesses. And it implement | achieves as a press mechanism which makes the flexible members 2 and 3 detach | leave from the inside of a hollow, and opens a flow path. The sample chamber 11 and the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c are composed of a through-hole and flexible members 2 and 3 that block the through-hole. By pressing the flexible members 2 and 3 against the through-hole, The communicating channel can be closed, and the channel can be opened by detaching the flexible members 2 and 3 from the through hole.

Further, the sample chamber 11 and the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c are heated in the pretreatment step by the nucleic acid detection device. Accordingly, the nucleic acid detection apparatus operates as a valve corresponding to the sample chamber 11 and the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c, and heats the sample in the sample chamber 11, the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c. As a push mechanism provided with a valve mechanism 21, 22a, 22b, 22c with a heater is provided.

  More specifically, the sample chamber 11 and the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c have a structure as shown in FIG. 16, and are heated by the heads of the valve mechanisms 21, 22a, 22b, and 22c with heaters, respectively. . In the sample chamber 11 and the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c, a taper is formed so that the head 201b can be fitted to the openings of the rigid plate members, that is, the through holes 303 and 302 formed in the main body 1. . Flow paths 204, 206, and 208 are formed between the plate member, that is, the upper surface side of the main body 1 and the flexible member 2, and between the lower surface side of the main body 1 and the flexible member 3, Channels 203 and 205 are formed. Further, a through channel 207 is formed in the plate member in order to connect the upper surface side channel 206 and the lower surface side channel 203.

  FIG. 14 shows a case where the sample S is sent from the sample chamber 11 to the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c. FIG. 16 shows the case where the liquid is sent to the amplification chamber 12a as a representative, but the liquid feeding to the amplification chambers 12b and 12c is also symmetric, and thus has the same mechanism. First, in a state where the sample S is stored in the sample chamber 11, the valve mechanism 21 with a heater is operated, and the head presses the flexible member 2 and the flexible member 3 against the opening of the through hole 303, All of the flow paths 204, 203, and 207 communicating with the sample chamber 11 are closed. Next, when the sample S is sent from the sample chamber 11 to the amplification chamber 12a, only the heater-attached valve mechanism 22a of the amplification chamber 12a of the amplification chamber 12a, which is the delivery destination, is operated. Then, the flexible member 3 is pressed against the opening of the through hole 302 by the head 201b, and the flow path 205 is closed. Subsequently, the flexible member 2 in the opening 303 of the sample chamber 11 and the head of the valve mechanism 21 with a heater pressing the flexible member 3 are both opened up and down to communicate with the sample chamber 11. Both the upper surface side channel 204 and the lower surface side channel 203 are opened. Further, in this state, by operating the pump unit 16 and applying pressure to the sample chamber 11 via the flow path 204, the sample S is supplied to the lower surface side flow path 203, the through flow path 207 and the sample chamber 11. It flows into the amplification chamber 12 a through the upper surface side flow path 206. Since the amplification chamber 12b and the amplification chamber 12c have a similar structure, the sample S is supplied in the same configuration. When the sample S is supplied to the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c, since the upper surface side flow path 208 is secured, the pressure and gas applied to the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c together with the sample S are The liquid S is discharged to the waste liquid chamber 18 through the flow path 208, and only the liquid sample S is supplied into the amplification chamber 12a by gravity. When a predetermined amount of sample S is supplied to the amplification chamber 12a, the valve mechanism 22a with a heater on the upper surface side operates, the head 201a closes the upper surface flow paths 206 and 208 of the amplification chamber 12a, and the amplification chamber 12a Keep it sealed. Subsequently, a heater (not shown) of the valve mechanism 22a with heater is energized and the sample S is heated to a predetermined temperature by the head.

  17A to 17C show a procedure for supplying a sample solution from the sample chamber 11 to the amplification chamber 12a, 12b, or 12c. 17A to 17C, the same reference numerals as those shown in FIG.

  In the amplification chamber 12a, 12b, or 12c shown in FIGS. 17A to 17C, a taper that fits the heads 201a and 201b is formed at the upper surface side and the lower surface side opening of the through hole 302, as shown in FIG. 6A. The heads 201a and 201b are disposed to face the openings.

  In such amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c, the heater-equipped valve mechanisms 21, 22a, 22b, and 22c operate while a heater (not shown) is maintained in a non-energized state as shown in FIG. 17B. Then, the head 201b pushes the flexible member 3 into the opening of the through hole 302, and the flow path 205 is blocked. The sample S is supplied to the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c with the flow path 205 blocked. When a predetermined amount of sample S is supplied to the amplification chambers 12 a, 12 b, and 12 c as shown in FIG. 17C, the valve mechanisms 21, 22 a, 22 b, and 22 c are operated, and the head 201 a flexes to the opening of the through hole 302. The sex member 2 is pressed, and the flow paths 206 and 208 are blocked. Thereafter, heaters (not shown) of the valve mechanisms 21, 22a, 22b, and 22c with heaters are energized, and the sample S is heated to a predetermined temperature by the heads 201a and 201b. In the structure shown in FIGS. 17A to 17C, the sample may be evaporated when the sample S is heated. However, since the evaporated sample is confined in the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c, an adverse effect due to the evaporated sample is caused. Can be prevented. Further, after the heating, the head 201 b is separated from the through hole 302 and the sample S is supplied to the mixing chamber 13 through the flow path 205. In particular, by providing a sealing function to the heater as described above, the cassette can be reduced in size, and the chamber is sandwiched from above and below the nucleic acid detection cassette 100, so that the temperature inside the chamber is equalized. It is possible to prevent liquid remaining due to condensation.

  In FIG. 16 and FIGS. 17A to 17C, the procedure for sending the sample S from the sample chamber 11 to the amplification chambers 12 a, 12 b, 12 c has been described as an example, but not limited to the amplification chambers 12 a, 12 b, 12 c, Obviously, when controlling the liquid in the chamber, the other chambers have the same structure, and the liquid may be controlled similarly.

When the sample holding chamber section (M _a , M _b , M _c ) 13 is provided, the chamber lower surface side is made of a flexible member and the chamber lower surface side flow path is closed, as in the amplification chamber 12. A cassette and apparatus configuration in which when the sample solution is supplied to the mixing chamber 13 and supplied from the mixing chamber 13 to the detection unit 19, the flow path on the lower surface side of the mixing chamber 13 is opened to move the sample solution. It is good also as operation.

  In the structure shown in FIGS. 13 to 15, the amplification chambers 12 a, 12 b, and 12 c are connected in parallel to the sample chamber 11 by radially extending flow paths. As described with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17A to 17C, by applying pressure to the sample chamber 11, the sample S is divided into three parts, and a uniform amount of the sample S is supplied to the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c. It is said. In this case, it is desirable that the flow path resistance via the amplification chamber 12a, the flow path resistance via the amplification chamber 12b, and the flow path resistance via the amplification chamber 12c are formed equally. For example, when the channel cross-sectional areas are common, it can be realized by making the channel lengths common. Instead of the amplification chambers 12a, 12b and 12c being connected in parallel to the sample chamber 11, the amplification chambers 12a, 12b and 12c are connected to the sample chamber 11 as shown in FIGS. They may be connected in series. In the connection as shown in FIG. 19, when the solution stored in the sample chamber 11 is fed by the liquid feeding method, the flow paths 203, 207, 206, 208, 209, 210 between the chambers. Even if the length and the cross-sectional shape of the flow path are not the same, the liquid can be evenly distributed by feeding at an appropriate flow rate.

  In FIGS. 18A to 18C, the same reference numerals as those shown in FIGS. 16 and 17A to 17C denote the same parts, and the description thereof is omitted. FIG. 19 schematically shows the connection relationship between the chambers and the flow paths shown in FIGS.

  In the structure of the nucleic acid detection cassette 100 shown in FIGS. 18A to 18C, only the upper surface side flow path 204 and the lower surface side flow path 203 communicating with the amplification chamber 12 a are connected to the sample chamber 11. The amplification chambers 12 a, 12 b, and 12 c are respectively connected to the sample holding chamber 13 by flow paths (not shown) on the lower surface side. When the sample S is sent from the sample chamber to the amplification chamber, in FIGS. 7A to 7C, the flow path (not shown) on the lower surface side is pressed by the heads 201b, 201e, and 201f. It is assumed that the member 3 is closed. The amplification chamber 12a is communicated with the sample chamber 11 and the amplification chamber 12b through the upper surface side channels 206 and 208, and the amplification chamber 12b is communicated with the amplification chambers 12a and 12c through the upper surface side channels 208 and 209. Further, the amplification chamber 12 c is communicated with the amplification chamber 12 b and the waste liquid chamber 18 through the upper surface side channels 209 and 210. Further, assuming that the volume 201 of the sample can be stored in the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c in a state where the heads 201b, 201e, and 201f press the flexible member 3 against the opening of the through hole 302, the sample chamber 11 The volume Vs of the sample stored in is determined to be 3Va or more. (Vs ≧ 3Va) By defining in this manner, the amplification chamber 12a is filled with the sample S in the sample chamber 11, and 12b is filled with the overflow portion, and 12c is filled with the overflow portion, and the amplification chamber 12a is filled. , 12b, 12c, the sample S can be distributed almost evenly. Therefore, in this case, the amount of sample filled in each amplification chamber is defined by the volume of each amplification chamber. Here, an example is shown in which the volumes of the amplification chambers are made common, but when there is a request to change the amount of liquid to be amplified, it can be dealt with by appropriately changing the volume of the amplification chamber. And there is no need to change the basic cassette configuration.

  In the structure shown in FIGS. 18A to 18C, the sample S initially stored in the sample chamber 11 as shown in FIG. 18A is transferred to the first amplification chamber 12a via the flow paths 203, 207 and 206 by the pressure P1. Supplied. When the first amplification chamber 12a is filled with the sample S supplied to the first amplification chamber 12a as shown in FIG. 18B, the sample S is further transferred from the first amplification chamber 12a via the flow path 208 by the pressure P1. It is supplied to the second amplification chamber 12b. Furthermore, when the second amplification chamber 12b is filled with the sample S supplied to the second amplification chamber 12b as shown in FIG. 18C, the sample S further flows from the second amplification chamber 12b through the flow path 209 by the pressure P1. Via the third amplification chamber 12c. When the third amplification chamber 12c is filled with the sample S, the sample S is distributed to all the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c. When the sample S is supplied from the sample chamber 11 to the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c, the upper surface side flow path 210 communicated with the waste liquid chamber 18 is secured, so that the amplification chamber 12a together with the sample S is secured. , 12b, and 12c are discharged to the waste liquid chamber 18 through the flow path 210, and only the liquid sample S is supplied into the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c by gravity.

  In the structure shown in FIGS. 1, 13, and 19, when the sample, the cleaning liquid, and the intercalating agent are supplied from the sample chamber 11, the cleaning liquid chamber 14, and the intercalating agent chamber 15a to the other chambers, the bottom surface is always provided. It flows out from the side channel and is supplied from the upper surface side channel. Therefore, the sample, the cleaning liquid, and the insertion agent are prevented from easily moving in the cassette structure, and even if the cassette structure is tilted when the cassette is transported, the liquid is not moved unless pressure is applied to each chamber. Can be prevented.

  20A and 20B show an example of the structure of the pump unit 16 and the pump function 26.

20A and 20B, an operation of feeding liquid from the sample chamber 11 with respect to the pump unit 16 communicating with the sample chamber 11 will be described. 20A and 20B, the sample chamber 11, the pump 16, and the valve 17a are developed in order to simplify the explanation. The valve 17 a switches between opening / closing of the pump unit 16 and the waste liquid chamber 18.

  Similarly, the pump portion 16 has a through-hole 305 formed in the main body 1. The pump unit 16 communicates with the sample chamber 11 through the upper surface side flow path 204. The pump unit 16 is further communicated with the valve unit 17 a configured by the through channel 306 via the upper surface side channel 214. The valve portion 17 a communicates with the waste liquid chamber 18 through the lower surface side flow path 310. A pump pusher 502 of the pump mechanism 26 is disposed facing the pump unit 16, and a valve pusher 501 is disposed facing the valve unit 17a.

  In the structure as shown in FIG. 20A, when the valve pusher 501 presses the flexible member 2 toward the opening of the through channel 306, the opening 306 of the through channel 306 is formed as shown in FIG. 20B. The flexible member 2 is closed. In this state, when the pump pusher 501 pressurizes the flexible sheet 2, the pressure and gas in the pump unit 16 are sent into the sample chamber 11 via the upper surface side flow path 204. Accordingly, the sample S in the sample chamber 11 is pushed out to the lower surface side flow path 203 and discharged from the sample chamber 11. Next, as shown in FIG. 20A, when the valve pusher 501 is returned and the opening of the through flow passage 306 is opened, and then the pump pusher 502 is returned, the gas is passed through the lower surface side flow passage 310. It flows into the pump unit 16. When the valve pusher 501 and the pump pusher 502 are repeatedly operated in this manner, the sample S is continuously sent out from the sample chamber 11 and the pressurizing gas is introduced into the pump unit 16.

  Here, as a condition for the pump unit 16 to function, the pressure loss on the suction side (channel 310 side) needs to be smaller than the pressure loss on the discharge side (channel 204 and sample chamber 11 side). . Therefore, it is preferable that the flow path on the air inlet 310 side has a larger cross-sectional area than the flow path 204 on the air outlet side.

  As described above, the sample S, the cleaning liquid, and the intercalating agent are separated in the flow path through the air (gas) and moved in the flow path by applying pressure to the air (gas) by the pump unit 16. Is done. As will be described later, by appropriately controlling the valve, the sample S, the cleaning liquid, and the intercalating agent can be individually moved in the flow path, and as a result, an appropriate reaction can be generated in the detection unit 19. it can.

  Further, in the nucleic acid detection cassette 100 described above, as shown in FIG. 21, the reaction chambers 10 such as the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c and the sample chamber 11 whose temperature is controlled by heating are provided with valve mechanisms 21, 22a to 22c. Is isolated from the adjacent chambers 8 and 9 by thermal isolation. That is, the valve 7 is configured by the heads of the valve mechanisms 21 and 22a to 22c, the flexible member 2 and the flexible member 3, and the head presses the flexible member 2 and the flexible member 3 against the flow path. These reaction chambers 10 are isolated. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the sample evaporates from the reaction chamber 10 and leaks out. More specifically, when the inside of the reaction chamber 10 is heated, the reaction chamber 10 is sandwiched from above and below by a head. The upper and lower surfaces of the reaction chamber 10 are formed in a tapered shape, the head is formed in a convex shape, and the flexible member 2 and the flexible member 3 are pressed against the reaction chamber 10 to seal the chamber 10. By adopting such a structure, it becomes possible to simultaneously heat the reaction chamber 10 and seal the reaction chamber 10.

  FIG. 22 shows a comparative example 1 schematically illustrated in comparison with the structure shown in FIG. In Comparative Example 1 shown in FIG. 22, valves 6A and 6B are provided separately from the reaction chamber 10 as a temperature control region, and only the reaction chamber 10 is controlled to be heated. In Comparative Example 1 as described above, the reaction solution evaporates and flows out into the flow path between the reaction chamber 10 and the valves 6A and 6B, and the reaction solution may flow out of the reaction chamber 10 due to condensation in the flow path. There is. Further, if the reaction solution comes into contact with the outflow channel from the chamber, there is a possibility that the reaction solution flows out of the reaction chamber through the channel due to capillary action.

  FIG. 23 also shows Comparative Example 2, which is schematically drawn in comparison with the structure shown in FIG. In Comparative Example 2 shown in FIG. 24, valves 6A and 6B are provided separately from reaction chamber 10, and in order to prevent condensation in Comparative Example 1, reaction chamber 10 as a temperature control region, reaction chamber 10 and valve 6A are provided. , 6B is heated and controlled. In Comparative Example 2 in which the temperature control range is extended to the valves 6A and 6B, heat may be transferred to the adjacent chambers 8 and 9 to cause an undesired reaction in the adjacent chambers 9 and 10.

  FIG. 24 is a block diagram of a detection device that controls the nucleic acid detection cassette 100. FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a procedure for detecting the nucleic acid by controlling the nucleic acid detection cassette 100 with the control system shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 24, the nucleic acid detection device (measurement unit) measures the temperature in the sample chamber, the amplification chamber, and the detection unit in the nucleic acid detection cassette 100, and includes valve mechanisms 21, 22a, 22b with heaters, A temperature control unit 102 is provided for controlling the temperature to a desired temperature by multiplying the heater output built in the head 22c with feedback of temperature information, and also controls liquid feeding of the sample S and the like in the flow path. A liquid feeding control unit 104 is provided. The liquid feeding unit 104 includes the pump unit 16, the pump mechanism 26, and the valve mechanisms with heaters 21, 22a, 22b, and 22c that have already been described. The nucleic acid detection apparatus further includes a detection unit 19, that is, a measurement unit 106 that measures a reaction occurring in the DNA chip. The measuring unit 106 detects a detection signal from the electrical contact pad using the electrical contact connector shown in FIG. 1, identifies the conducting electrode, and identifies the nucleic acid. These temperature control unit 102, liquid supply control unit 104, and measurement unit 106 are controlled by a control mechanism 108 under the control of the computer unit 110.

  In such a nucleic acid detection apparatus, nucleic acid is detected by the procedure shown in FIG. 25 as follows.

  When the nucleic acid detection cassette 100 is supplied to the user, the sample chamber 11 is provided without being sealed, and the opening (sample inlet) 404 of the chamber 11 is provided in an openable state. In the nucleic acid detection cassette 100 provided in this state, the lower flow path of the sample chamber 11 is first sealed. (Step S10) Next, the sample S is injected into the sample chamber 11 from the upper opening of the sample chamber 11. (Step S12) Thereafter, the upper opening of the sample chamber 11 is closed with a lid (or seal) 402. (Step S14) The head (not shown) of the heater-equipped valve mechanism 21 is pressed against the lid (seal) 402 formed of a flexible member and the flexible member 2 that is in close contact with the lid. The upper flow path of the sample chamber S14 is closed, and the sample S is sealed in the sample chamber 11. (Step S16)

  The heater of the valve mechanism 21 with a heater is operated to control the temperature of the heater, and the sample S is boiled at a predetermined temperature. (Step S18) For example, the nucleic acid in the sample S is extracted by heating at 95 ° C. for 5 minutes. Next, the head (not shown) of the valve mechanism 21 with heater is separated from the flexible members 2 and 3, and the lower flow path communicating with the sample chamber 11 is opened. (Step S20) Further, the lower heads of the heater-equipped valve mechanisms 22a, 22b, and 22c press the flexible member 3 against the openings on the lower surfaces of the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c to communicate with the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c. The lower flow path is closed. Thereafter, the pump 26 is operated to apply gas pressure to the sample chamber 11. Accordingly, the sample S is supplied from the sample chamber 11 to the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c through the lower flow path, the through flow path, and the upper flow path. (Step S24)

  Further, the upper heads of the valve mechanisms 22a, 22b, and 22c with heaters are pressed from above onto the openings of the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c, and the valve mechanisms 22a with heater are sealed in a state where the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c are sealed. , 22b, 22c are operated and the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, 12c are heated while the heaters are temperature controlled. Accordingly, the sample S in the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c is heated to amplify the DNA. (Step S28) For example, when the sample S is heated at 65 ° C. for 60 minutes, the nucleic acid in the sample S is amplified. Thereafter, the heads of the valve mechanisms 22a, 22b, 22c with heaters are separated from the upper and lower openings of the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, 12c and communicate with the upper and lower sides of the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, 12c. The road is opened. (Step S30) Next, the valve 17d is pressed by the valve mechanism 27d to block the path communicating with the waste liquid chamber 18 through the upper flow path as an air vent hole. (Step S32) Here, when the pump 26 is operated, gas pressure is applied to the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, 12c, and the sample S in the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, 12c It is supplied to the DNA chip substrate of the detection unit 19 via the upper flow path. (Step S38) The DNA chip substrate of the detection unit 19 is heated in a temperature-controlled state, and hybridization is caused therein. That is, in the DNA chip, the target DNA is bound (hybridized) to the probe DNA while the temperature of the DNA chip is controlled.

  Thereafter, the valve 17c is opened, so that the valve 17a and the valve 15b are closed while the flow path from the pump unit to the cleaning liquid chamber 14 and further to the DNA chip substrate is communicated. (Step S42) When the pump 26 is operated in this state, a gas pressure is applied to the cleaning liquid chamber 14, and the cleaning liquid is supplied to the DNA chip substrate of the detection unit 19. (Step S44) Accordingly, the sample S in the DNA chip substrate of the detection unit 19 is supplied to the waste liquid chamber 18 through the valve 17f and is unnecessary on the DNA chip substrate of the detection unit 19 with the supplied cleaning liquid ( The DNA sample (which does not contribute to hybridization) is washed. At the time of this cleaning, the temperature of the DNA chip substrate of the detection unit 19 is controlled and cleaned with a cleaning solution of a predetermined temperature. (Step S46) That is, in the DNA chip, the DNA excluding the target DNA having a sequence complementary to the probe DNA is washed with this washing solution while the DNA chip is maintained at a predetermined temperature.

  The cleaning liquid valve 17c is closed and the valve 15b is opened, whereby the communication with the cleaning liquid chamber 14 is switched to the insertion agent supply. Here, the pump 26 is operated to apply a gas pressure to the intercalating agent chamber 15 a, and the intercalating agent is supplied to the DNA chip substrate of the detection unit 19. (Step S52) With the supply of the intercalating agent, the cleaning liquid in the DNA chip substrate of the detection unit 19 is discharged to the waste liquid chamber 18 through the valve 17f. When the temperature of the detection unit 19 is controlled and the insertion agent is maintained at a predetermined temperature, the insertion agent binds to the hybridized DNA on the DNA chip substrate. (Step S54) By applying a voltage between the counter electrode and the individual electrode in a state where the intercalating agent solution is injected, the intercalating agent causes an oxidation-reduction reaction, and a current associated therewith is detected at the individual electrode. The performed electrode is identified. (Step S56) Since the base sequence of the probe DNA of the DNA chip is known, the base sequence of the target DNA can be specified by specifying the individual electrode where this redox current is detected. That is, it turns out that the base sequence of the detection target region of the target DNA is complementary to the probe DNA sequence of the current detection electrode.

  The nucleic acid detection cassette and the nucleic acid detection cassette according to the embodiment of the present invention have the configuration and structure as described above, but various improvements may be given as described below.

  Reagents 114 are stored in advance in the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c as the reaction chamber 110 as shown in FIG. 26A. Since the flow paths connected to these reaction chambers have a sufficiently narrow cross-sectional area, the reagent 114 may flow out of the chamber 114 through the flow path 116 due to capillary action. If the reagent 114 can be dripped so as not to be in contact with the flow path completely at the central portion of the reaction chamber 110, a problem that the reagent 114 flows out can be prevented. However, as shown in FIG. 26B, the reagent 114 is introduced in a large amount so as to cover the entire bottom surface of the chamber, or even if the reagent 114 is a very small amount, the dropping position is deviated from the center and comes into contact with the lower flow path 116. Or when the reagent 114 moves inside the reaction chamber 110 and comes into contact with the flow path 116, the problem that the reagent 114 flows out occurs. Sometimes. When the problem that the reagent 114 flows out occurs, the amount of the reagent remaining in the chamber 114 decreases, so that the amount of the reagent that can contribute to a reaction process such as an amplification reaction is changed from a predetermined amount, As a result, there is a possibility that problems such as reaction stability and reproducibility may occur. However, when the reaction chamber has a structure that can hold the reagent 114 in the reaction chamber 110 as shown in FIGS. 27A to 27J, the reagent 114 flows out through the flow path 116 as described above. Can be prevented.

  As shown in FIGS. 27A and 27B, a ring-shaped step 120 may be provided on the wall surface in the reaction chamber 110, and the reagent 114 may be dropped onto the step 120. In the structure shown in FIG. 27A, as shown in FIG. 27B, the reagent 114 can be held so as to wrap around the ring-shaped step 120, and the reagent 114 flows to the adjacent chamber 112 via the flow path 116. Can be prevented. In such a structure, the reagent 114 can be stably held at a location spatially separated from the flow path 116 communicating with the reaction chamber 110, so that the reagent 114 can be prevented from flowing out.

  As shown in FIGS. 27C and 27D, a structure in which a saucer-shaped reagent holding region 121 is provided at the center of the space in the reaction chamber 110 may be used. The receiving plate 121 may have a simple disk shape on the support arm 122 extended from the inner surface of the reaction chamber 110, but preferably has a shape with a raised edge as shown in FIG. 27E or 27F. Is preferable from the viewpoint that In this case, it is considered that a bridge-like support arm 122 is required from the side wall portion of the reaction chamber 110 in manufacturing. As shown in FIG. 27D, it is sufficient that the tray 121 is supported by one support arm 122 or a plurality of support arms 122. However, since the other solution flows in from the upper part, is mixed with the reagent 114, and has to flow out from the lower flow path 116 after the reaction process, the area where the tray 121 and the support 122 cover the chamber is the area of the reaction chamber 110. It is preferably less than half of the cross-sectional area.

  As shown in FIGS. 27G and 27H, a ring-shaped step (step) 120 is provided on the wall surface in the reaction chamber 110, and a shape as shown in FIG. 27I or FIG. 27J is formed at the center of the space in the reaction chamber 110. A structure in which the structures shown in FIGS. 27A and 27C such that the tray-shaped reagent holding region 121 is provided is combined. When the amount of reagent 114 is large, it may be assumed that the necessary capacity cannot be ensured only on the tray 121. In that case, it is preferable to increase the area for receiving the reagent 114 so that the reagent is held from the tray 121 to the support 122 and the side wall step 120. In order for the reagent 114 dropped on the tray 121 to be transmitted to these structures, it is preferable that a groove is also formed on the support 122. In the structure shown in FIGS. 27C and 27G, a groove may be formed on the support body 122. These structures may be appropriately selected according to the amount of reagent to be retained.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 288, a structure in which a lattice 128 on a mesh is fixed in the reaction chamber 110 may be adopted. In this structure, when the reagent 114 is dropped, the reagent 114 may be held by surface tension between the meshes of the lattice 128 on the mesh.

  In addition, as described above, for example, the reagent 114 held in the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c is a sample solution in which the pretreated sample solution 130 (corresponding to the sample S) is the pretreatment chamber. It is necessary to flow into the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c from the chamber 11 and be mixed with the amplification reagent 114 in the amplification chambers 12a, 12b, and 12c to perform an amplification reaction. For this purpose, the reagent 114 and the sample solution 130 need to be mixed when the sample solution 130 flows in or during heat treatment for the amplification reaction. Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 29A, 29B, and 29C, the liquid level may eventually become higher than the position where the reagent 114 is held in the state where the sample solution 130 is filled in the chamber. Required. 29A to 29C show the relationship of the liquid level in the structure shown in FIGS. 27A, 27C and 27G, respectively.

  30A to 30C show still another structure for holding the reagent 114. In the reagent holding structure shown in FIGS. 30A to 30C, a recess 132 or a bank-like enclosure 134 is formed in a part of the flexible member 3 corresponding to the bottom of the chamber 110 as shown in FIG. 30B. The reagent 114 is held. Even in such a structure, it is preferable that the recess 132 or the bank-like enclosure 134 is formed near the center of the reaction chamber 110.

  According to the nucleic acid detection cassette of the present invention, nucleic acid leakage to the external environment and contamination of the nucleic acid from the outside are prevented, and nucleic acid amplification and other necessary processing and detection of the target nucleic acid are performed automatically and consistently. Can be processed.

  In addition, since the reagent stored in the interior in advance is held at a predetermined position and no unintentional outflow occurs, stable reaction processing and detection can be realized.

  When the sample solution is supplied from the sample chamber 11 to the amplification chamber 12, the chamber lower surface side flow path 205 is closed and the chamber upper surface side flow path 208 is secured as shown in FIG. Thus, the solution flows into the chamber from the chamber upper surface side flow path 206. Since the reagent stored in advance in the amplification chamber 12 is relatively small, the amplification chamber is provided with a structure for holding the reagent as shown in FIGS. 27A to 27J, 20 and 30A to 30C. It is possible to prevent the solution from flowing out unintentionally before the solution is caused to flow out.

  As described herein, the reagent is not limited to the case where it is held in a liquid state. Even if it is introduced into the amplification chamber 12 in a solid state, the reagent is introduced into the amplification chamber 12 in a liquid state, and then a drying process or the like is performed. After that, it may be held in a solid state.

  When moving the sample solution from the amplification chamber 12 to the next chamber, the sample solution is moved by applying a gas pressure to the amplification chamber 12 by operating the pump with the chamber lower surface side channel 208 opened. It moves to the next chamber via the chamber lower surface side flow path 205, and it is possible to sufficiently control the movement of the liquid.

  However, when the amount of the reagent to be retained is as large as the chamber volume, such as the cleaning liquid chamber 14 or the intercalating agent chamber 15a, it does not have a structure for directly closing the chamber lower surface side channel. In this case, the reagent may flow out of the chamber unintentionally in the same manner as described in FIG.

  Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 31 to 33, it is possible to control the outflow amount to a minimum by increasing the sectional area of a part of the outflow passage. This is because the solution flowing out of the chamber due to capillary action stops at a point where the cross-sectional area is changing. FIG. 31 shows a cross section of the cleaning liquid chamber 14, and FIG. 32 shows a cross section of the intercalating agent chamber 15a. In the figure, the liquid level of the liquid reagent held in advance is schematically described. In addition, even when the pressure in the chamber slightly changes during the operation of other regions in the cassette, the reagent tip position may change greatly due to a partial increase in the cross-sectional area of the flow path. For example, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the reagent unintentionally reaches an adjacent region.

  Such an effect is also effective for the mixing chamber 13 shown in FIG. That is, it can be assumed that the mixing chamber 13 holds a liquid state reagent in advance or a solid state reagent. Moreover, not only the case where it has the structure which can directly close the chamber lower surface side flow path but the case where it does not have can be assumed. When the reagent in the liquid state is held, it is exactly the same as the cleaning liquid chamber 14 and the intercalating agent chamber 15a. When the reagent held in the mixing chamber 13 is in a solid state and no liquid is initially present in the mixing chamber 13, when the sample solution is supplied from the amplification chamber 12 to the mixing chamber 13, It turns out that an effect is demonstrated. That is, almost simultaneously with the supply of liquid to the mixing chamber 13, the solution flows out of the mixing chamber lower surface side flow path by capillary action. However, as shown in FIG. By enlarging, the outflow due to the capillary phenomenon can be stopped at the point where the cross-sectional area is changing, so that the outflow can be controlled. In addition, as in the case of the cleaning liquid chamber 14 and the intercalating agent chamber 15a, the effect that the front end position of the solution does not fluctuate greatly even when the pressure in the chamber slightly fluctuates during the operation of other regions in the cassette. I can expect.

  Sample holding chambers 310, 320, and 330 shown in FIGS. 31 to 33 correspond to the cleaning liquid chamber 14, the intercalating agent chamber 15a, and the mixing chamber 13, respectively. In the chambers 310 and 320, reagents 312 and 322 are stored. In addition, the sample solution 332 is held in the chamber 330. Through-hole channels 3B, 3I, and 3M are connected to the lower surface channels 2B, 2I, and 2M, respectively. At this time, the cross-sectional areas of the upper side 3B2, 3I2, and 3M2 of the through-hole channels 3B, 3I, and 3M are larger than the lower side. Further, the upper surface side channels 1B2, 1I2, and 1M2 are connected to the through-hole channels 3B2, 3I2, and 3M2 having a large cross-sectional area, respectively. Thus, by increasing the cross-sectional area on the upper side of the through-hole channel, the outflow amounts of the reagents 312, 322 and the sample solution 332 can be controlled to the minimum. For example, the cross section of 3B, 3I, and 3M is φ1 mm, and the cross section of 3B2, 3I2, and 3M2 is φ2 mm.

  Further, it is desirable to perform a hydrophobic treatment of the flow path as a means for preventing unintentional outflow of the solution from the cleaning liquid chamber 14, the intercalating agent chamber 15a, or the sample holding chamber. Each of the sample holding chambers 340 shown in FIG. 34 corresponds to the cleaning liquid chamber 14, the intercalating agent chamber 15a, or the sample holding chamber. In FIG. 34, a reagent 341 is stored in a chamber 340. The upper surface side flow path 1R1 and the lower surface side flow path 2R are connected to the chamber 340, and the upper surface side flow path 1R2 is connected to the lower surface side flow path 2R via the through-hole flow path 3R. By performing hydrophobic treatment on at least the chamber lower surface side flow path 2R, when the solution flows into the chamber, the solution does not enter the lower surface side flow path unless the chamber internal pressure rises. There is no possibility that the solution flows out through the lower surface side channel. With respect to the cleaning liquid chamber 14 and the intercalating agent chamber 15a, it is possible to reliably fill the chamber with the cleaning liquid and intercalating agent solution that are preloaded in the chamber. As for the sample holding chamber 13, when a reagent in a liquid state is loaded in advance, an effect of reliably filling the reagent in the chamber can be expected in the same manner as the cleaning liquid chamber and the intercalating agent chamber. Even when the reagent loaded in advance is in a solid state, when the sample solution is supplied to the mixing chamber, the sample solution is prevented from unintentionally flowing out from the channel on the lower surface side of the chamber due to capillary action. I can do it. If the flow path for carrying out the hydrophobic treatment is applied to 3R and 1R2, respectively, in addition to 2R, the above-described action can be obtained more reliably. Further, the hydrophobic treatment is performed on the upper surface side flow path, that is, 1R1, so that the solution in the chamber is prevented from flowing backward even when the cassette is accidentally overturned. When the upper surface side flow path 1R1 of the mixing chamber is filled with a liquid reagent, the effect of preventing the backflow when the cassette is overturned, as in the cleaning liquid chamber and the intercalating agent chamber, is also amplified. Since it is also a flow path for the sample solution inflow from the chamber, the sample solution that has reached the hydrophilic chamber M from the hydrophobic flow path 1R1 by pressure can easily flow into the chamber. That is, an effect of improving so-called “liquid running out” can be expected.

  It is also possible to expect a further effect by applying both a configuration in which the cross-sectional area of the flow path is partially increased and a method of applying a hydrophobic treatment. That is, the hydrophobic treatment prevents the solution from entering the channel due to capillary action, and if the solution enters the channel due to fluctuations in the internal pressure of the chamber, it is Thus, the amount of movement of the tip of the solution becomes small at the location where the cross-sectional area of the flow path is large. Thereby, it is possible to prevent adjacent functions, that is, mixing with other reagents, mixing with other solutions, inflow into adjacent chambers, intrusion of solutions into other sites, and the like.

  Furthermore, the hydrophobic treatment of the flow path is effective not only for the cleaning liquid chamber, the intercalating agent chamber and the sample holding chamber but also for the flow path of the sample chamber 11 and the flow path of the amplification chamber 12. The chamber 350 in FIG. 35A corresponds to the sample chamber 11. In FIG. 35A, the upper surface side flow path 1S1 and the lower surface side flow path 2S are connected to the chamber 350, and the through hole flow path 3S is connected to the lower surface side flow path 2S. The upper surface side flow path 1S2 is connected via this. By subjecting the lower surface side flow path 2S of the sample chamber 350 to hydrophobic treatment, it is possible to set the cassette in the apparatus, close the sample chamber lower surface side flow path 2S, and then inject the sample solution before injecting the sample solution. Even if the sample solution is injected while the channel 2S is opened, the sample solution does not flow out from the lower surface side channel 2S, so that more strict inspection is possible. Furthermore, the hydrophobic treatment of the upper surface side flow path 1S1 of the sample chamber can be expected to prevent the sample solution from flowing out when the cassette falls after the sample solution is injected, as in the case of the cleaning solution chamber and the intercalating agent chamber. .

  Chamber 355 of FIG. 35B shows the amplification chamber 12. In FIG. 35B, the upper surface side flow channel 1A1 and the lower surface side flow channel 2A are connected to the chamber 355, and the upper surface side flow channel 1A2 is connected to the lower surface side flow channel 2A via the through-hole flow channel 3A.

  As for the amplification chamber 355, the hydrophobic treatment of the lower surface side flow path 2A can be expected to have the effect of preventing the outflow after the sample solution is injected, like the sample chamber. With the hydrophobic treatment of the upper surface side flow path 1A1 of the amplification chamber, it can be expected that the sample solution that has reached the hydrophilic amplification chamber 355 from the hydrophobic flow path 1A1 from the sample chamber easily flows into the chamber. . The same effect can be expected even if the entire amplification chamber 355 is not necessarily hydrophilic and only the region of the amplification chamber 355 connected to the upper surface side flow path 1A1 is hydrophilic. That is, the solution that has reached the amplification chamber 355 from the upper surface side flow path 1A1 may be guided to the hydrophilic region of the connection portion of the amplification chamber 355 with the upper surface side flow path 1A1, and fall into the amplification chamber 355. It becomes possible. Similarly, the same effect can be expected for the mixing chamber by partially making the connecting portion with the upper surface side flow path 1M1 partially hydrophilic.

  Furthermore, the hydrophobic treatment of the flow path is effective even when applied to the bypass flow path from the amplification chamber 12 and the bypass flow path from the mixing chamber 13. A chamber 360 in FIG. 36A shows a bypass flow path side cross section of the amplification chamber 12. In FIG. 36A, the upper surface side flow path 1A3 is connected to the chamber 360. Regarding the chamber 360, the hydrophobic treatment of the upper surface side flow path 1A3 is performed when the sample solution is sent from the sample chamber to the amplification chamber, and the sample solution is supplied to the upper surface side flow path 1A3 which is a gas pressure discharge path from the pump unit. Can be expected to prevent accidental entry. A chamber 365 in FIG. 36B shows a bypass channel side cross section of the mixing chamber 13. In FIG. 36B, the upper surface side flow path 1M3 is connected to the chamber 365. Regarding the chamber 365, the hydrophobic treatment of the upper surface side channel 1M3 causes the sample solution to erroneously enter the upper surface side channel 1M3, which is a gas pressure discharge path from the pump unit, when the sample solution is sent. The effect of preventing this can be expected. In FIG. 34, FIG. 35A, FIG. 35B, FIG. 36A, and FIG. 36B, the region of the flow path indicated by hatching indicates a region that is preferably hydrophobic. In contrast, the other region is preferably hydrophilic. Thus, by making the inside of the chamber hydrophilic and the inside of the flow path hydrophobic, it becomes possible to control the solution more strictly.

  As described above, according to the present invention, a nucleic acid detection cassette for the purpose of detecting a target nucleic acid by automatically performing steps such as nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection, and nucleic acid detection using this nucleic acid detection cassette An apparatus can be provided.

It is a perspective view showing roughly the whole composition of the nucleic acid detection cassette concerning the embodiment of the present invention. It is a functional block diagram of the nucleic acid detection cassette for implementing a nucleic acid test. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows the sample chamber part and its periphery of a nucleic acid detection cassette. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows the sample chamber part (S), amplification chamber part (A), and its periphery of a nucleic acid detection cassette. 4A is a cross-sectional view of the amplification chamber section (A) in a direction different from FIG. 4A. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows the sample holding chamber part (M) of a nucleic acid detection cassette, and its periphery. It is a schematic sectional drawing in the direction different from FIG. 5A of a sample holding chamber part (M). It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows the detection part (D) of the nucleic acid detection cassette for implementing a nucleic acid test, and its periphery. It is the figure which demonstrated typically the outline of the flow-path structure and electrode arrangement | positioning in the detection part (D) in a nucleic acid detection cassette. It is the figure which demonstrated typically the outline of the flow-path structure and electrode arrangement | positioning in the detection part (D) in a nucleic acid detection cassette. It is a functional block diagram of the nucleic acid detection cassette for implementing a nucleic acid test. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows the washing | cleaning liquid chamber part (B) of a nucleic acid detection cassette, and its periphery. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows the washing | cleaning liquid chamber part (B) of a nucleic acid detection cassette, and its periphery. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows the waste liquid chamber part (W) of a nucleic acid detection cassette, and its periphery. It is a functional block diagram of the nucleic acid detection cassette for implementing a nucleic acid test. It is a top view which shows roughly the upper surface of the nucleic acid detection cassette concerning the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a top view which shows roughly the lower surface of the nucleic acid detection cassette concerning the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows each operation | movement part with which a nucleic acid detection apparatus which operates the nucleic acid detection cassette shown by FIG. 1 is equipped with a nucleic acid detection cassette. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a liquid feeding operation in a valve function with a heater from a sample chamber to an amplification chamber in the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. 1. It is sectional drawing which shows schematically the heating operation in the valve function with a heater at the time of heating the amplification chamber in the nucleic acid detection cassette shown by FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows schematically the heating operation in the valve function with a heater at the time of heating the amplification chamber in the nucleic acid detection cassette shown by FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows schematically the heating operation in the valve function with a heater at the time of heating the amplification chamber in the nucleic acid detection cassette shown by FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another example of the structure different from the structure shown in FIGS. 1, 13, and 14 for distributing a sample from the sample chamber to the amplification chamber in the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. is there. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another example of the structure different from the structure shown in FIGS. 1, 13, and 14 for distributing a sample from the sample chamber to the amplification chamber in the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. is there. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another example of the structure different from the structure shown in FIGS. 1, 13, and 14 for distributing a sample from the sample chamber to the amplification chamber in the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. is there. FIG. 19 is a block diagram schematically showing a channel arrangement for dividing a sample into three parts in the structure shown in FIG. 18. It is sectional drawing which shows schematically operation | movement of the pump part in the nucleic acid detection cassette shown by FIG. 1, and the pump mechanism which operates this pump part. It is sectional drawing which shows schematically operation | movement of the pump part in the nucleic acid detection cassette shown by FIG. 1, and the pump mechanism which operates this pump part. It is explanatory drawing which shows typically the heating of the amplification chamber in the nucleic acid detection cassette shown by FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows typically the heating of the amplification chamber in the comparative example 1 for comparing with the nucleic acid detection cassette shown by FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows typically the heating of the amplification chamber in the comparative example 2 for comparing with the nucleic acid detection cassette shown by FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the nucleic acid chamber apparatus for implementing the nucleic acid test | inspection in the nucleic acid detection cassette shown by FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the test | inspection process in the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. 1, and the nucleic acid detection apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example in which a supplied reagent in a reaction chamber portion (amplification chamber) of the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. 1 is transferred to an adjacent chamber. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example in which a supplied reagent in a reaction chamber portion (amplification chamber) of the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. 1 is transferred to an adjacent chamber. It is sectional drawing which shows schematically the reagent holding structure which can be provided in the reaction chamber of the nucleic acid detection cassette shown by FIG. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another embodiment of the reagent holding structure that can be provided in the reaction chamber of the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another reagent holding structure that can be provided in the reaction chamber of the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. 1. It is a cross-sectional view schematically showing another reagent holding structure that can be provided in the reaction chamber of the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows the structural example which concerns on the modification of the structure shown by FIG. 27C and FIG. 27D. It is sectional drawing which shows the other structural example which concerns on the modification of the structure shown by FIG. 27C and FIG. 27D. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing still another reagent holding structure that can be provided in the reaction chamber of the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing still another reagent holding structure that can be provided in the reaction chamber of the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing still another example of the reagent holding structure that can be provided in the reaction chamber of the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing still another example of the reagent holding structure that can be provided in the reaction chamber of the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing still another reagent holding structure that can be provided in the reaction chamber of the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. 1. It is sectional drawing which shows schematically the change of the liquid level in the solution inflow in the reagent holding | maintenance structure shown by FIG. 27A. FIG. 28B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a change in liquid level during solution inflow in the reagent holding structure shown in FIG. 27B. It is sectional drawing which shows schematically the change of the liquid level in the solution inflow in the reagent holding | maintenance structure shown by FIG. 27C. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing still another reagent holding structure that can be provided in the reaction chamber of the nucleic acid detection cassette shown in FIG. 1. It is sectional drawing which extracts and shows a part of structure shown to FIG. 30A. It is sectional drawing which extracts and shows a part of structure shown to FIG. 30A. In FIG. 10A, it is a figure explaining the effect at the time of enlarging flow-path cross-sectional area of a washing | cleaning liquid chamber part. In FIG. 37, it is a figure explaining the effect at the time of enlarging the flow-path cross-sectional area of an insertion agent chamber part. In FIG. 5A, it is a figure explaining the effect at the time of enlarging the flow-path cross-sectional area of a sample holding chamber part. In FIG. 5A, FIG. 10A, and FIG. 37, it is a figure explaining the effect at the time of carrying out the hydrophobic process of the flow-path inner surface. In FIG. 3, it is a figure explaining the effect at the time of carrying out the hydrophobic process of the flow-path inner surface of a sample chamber part. In FIG. 4A, it is a figure explaining the effect at the time of carrying out the hydrophobic process of the flow-path inner surface of an amplification chamber part. In FIG. 4B, it is a figure explaining the effect at the time of carrying out the hydrophobic process of the flow-path inner surface of an amplification chamber part. In FIG. 5B, it is a figure explaining the effect at the time of carrying out the hydrophobic process of the flow-path inner surface of a sample holding chamber part. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows the insertion agent chamber part and its periphery of a nucleic acid detection cassette.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Cassette main body, 2, 3 ... Flexible member, 11 ... Sample chamber, 12a-12c ... Amplification chamber, 13 ... Mixing chamber, 14 ... Cleaning agent chamber, 15 ... Insert agent chamber, 16 ... Pump part, 17a ˜17e ... valve, 18 ... waste liquid chamber, 19 ... target nucleic acid detection unit, 20 ... insulation digging unit, 21, 22a, 22b, 22c ... valve mechanism with heater, 27a, 27b, 27c, 27d, 27e, 27f ... Valve mechanism, 50a to 50c ... Flow path, 100 ... Nucleic acid detection cassette, 112 ... Measurement unit, 201a to 201f ... Head

Claims (7)

The first through-hole (S), the second through-hole (S), and the first groove ( S1), a first groove (S2) formed on the surface, a second groove (S) provided on the facing surface, a first through hole (A), a second through hole (A), 1st groove | channel (A1) formed in the said surface, 1st groove | channel (A2) formed in the said surface, 2nd groove | channel (A) provided in the said opposing surface, space (D), the said surface A plate-like member having a first groove (D1) formed on the surface and a first groove (D2) formed on the surface;
First and second sheet-like members covering the surface and the opposing surface;
A pump part formed on the plate-like member for supplying gas pressure;
A sample chamber part that is defined by the first through hole (S) being closed by the first and second sheet-like members, communicates with the pump part, and holds a nucleic acid sample;
Formed in the plate-like member, the first through hole (A) is defined by being closed by the first and second sheet-like members, communicated with the sample chamber portion, and the sample chamber portion An amplification chamber section for receiving a nucleic acid sample from and amplifying the nucleic acid in the nucleic acid sample;
A detection unit that is formed on the plate-like member, communicates with the amplification chamber unit, receives the nucleic acid sample, and detects a target nucleic acid from the nucleic acid sample;
A reflux channel communicating the detection unit and the pump unit;
A first flow path (1S1) defined by the first groove (S1) being covered by the first sheet-like member;
A first flow path (1S2) defined by the first groove (S2) being covered by the first sheet-like member;
A second flow path (2S) defined by the second groove (S) being covered by the second sheet-like member;
A third flow path (3S) defined by the second through hole (S) being covered with the first sheet-like member and the second sheet-like member;
A first flow path (1A1) defined by the first groove (A1) being covered with the first sheet-like member;
A first flow path (1A2) defined by the first groove (A2) being covered with the first sheet-like member;
A second flow path (2A) defined by the second groove (A) being covered by the second sheet-like member;
A third flow path (3A) defined by the second through hole (A) being covered with the first sheet-like member and the second sheet-like member;
A first flow path (1D1) defined by the first groove (D1) being covered by the first sheet-like member;
A first flow path (1D2) defined by the first groove (D2) being covered by the first sheet-like member;
A nucleic acid detection cassette comprising a valve part (D) for switching between opening and closing between the detection part and the reflux channel,
The pump unit, the sample chamber unit, the amplification chamber unit, and the detection unit communicate in a ring shape, and the sample chamber unit includes the first flow path (1S1) and the second flow channel. Road (2S) is connected,
The third channel (3S) is connected to the second channel (2S),
The first channel (1S2) is connected to the third channel (3S),
The amplification chamber section is connected to the first channel (1A1) and the second channel (2A),
The third channel (3A) is connected to the second channel (2A),
The first channel (1A2) is connected to the third channel (3A),
The first flow path (1D1) and the first flow path (1D2) are connected to the detection unit,
In the sample chamber part, the gas pressure supplied by the pump part is applied from the first flow path (1S1), whereby the nucleic acid sample held in the sample chamber part is converted into the second chamber. Are discharged through the flow path (2S), the third flow path (3S) and the first flow path (1S2),
In the amplification chamber section, the nucleic acid sample flows from the first flow path (1A1) together with the gas pressure supplied from the pump section, and the gas supplied from the first flow path (1A1) to the pump section. When the pressure is applied, the nucleic acid sample is discharged through the second channel (2A), the third channel (3A), and the first channel (1A2),
In the detection unit, the nucleic acid sample flows from the first channel (1D1) together with the gas pressure supplied from the pump unit, and the gas pressure supplied from the pump unit from the first channel (1D1) By being given, the nucleic acid sample is discharged through the first flow path (1D2),
The gas pressure is refluxed from the detection unit to the pump unit through the reflux channel,
A nucleic acid detection cassette comprising a plurality of sets of the amplification chamber section, the detection section, and a flow path connected to the amplification chamber sections, and nucleic acid samples amplified in different amplification chamber sections are detected by different detection sections. The plate-like member includes a first groove (A3) formed on the surface,
The nucleic acid detection cassette is
A first flow path (1A3) defined by the first groove (A3) being covered with the first sheet-like member and connected to the reflux flow path and the amplification chamber section;
A valve part (A) for switching between opening and closing between the amplification chamber part and the reflux channel;
A valve unit (D) provided for each of the plurality of detection units, for switching between open / close between each of the detection units and the reflux flow path;
Comprising
When the valve part (A) is opened and the valve part (D) is closed, the nucleic acid sample flows into the amplification chamber part together with the gas pressure supplied by the pump part from the first channel (1A1). The gas pressure is recirculated to the pump unit through the first flow path (1A3) and the recirculation flow path,
When the valve unit (A) is closed and the valve unit (D) is opened, the amplification chamber unit is supplied with the gas pressure supplied by the pump unit from the first channel (1A1). The nucleic acid detection cassette according to claim 1, wherein the nucleic acid sample is discharged through the flow path (2A), the third flow path (3A), and the first flow path (1A2). The plate-like member further includes a space (B) having an opening on the surface or the opposing surface, a second through hole (B), a first groove (B1) formed on the surface, A first groove (B2) formed on the surface, and a second groove (B) provided on the facing surface;
The nucleic acid detection cassette is
A cleaning liquid chamber in which at least an opening of the space (B) is defined by being closed by the first sheet-like member or the second sheet-like member, communicates with the pump part and the detection part, and holds a cleaning liquid And
A first flow path (1B1) defined by the first groove (B1) being covered by the first sheet-like member;
A first flow path (1B2) defined by the first groove (B2) being covered by the first sheet-like member;
A second flow path (2B) defined by the second groove (B) being covered by the second sheet-like member;
A third flow path (3B) defined by the second through hole (B) being covered with the first sheet-like member and the second sheet-like member;
A valve section (S) for switching between opening and closing between the pump section and the sample chamber section or between the sample chamber section and the detection section;
A valve section (B) for switching between opening and closing between the pump section and the cleaning liquid chamber section or between the cleaning liquid chamber section and the detection section;
The first flow path (1B1) and the second flow path (2B) are connected to the cleaning liquid chamber section,
The third channel (3B) is connected to the second channel (2B),
The first channel (1B2) is connected to the third channel (3B),
When the valve part (S) is closed and the valve part (B) is opened,
In the cleaning liquid chamber section, the cleaning liquid held in the cleaning liquid chamber section is supplied to the second flow path (2B) by applying the gas pressure supplied from the pump section from the first flow path (1B1). The nucleic acid detection cassette according to claim 1, wherein the nucleic acid detection cassette is discharged through the third channel (3B) and the first channel (1B2). The plate-like member includes a space (W) having an opening on the surface or the opposing surface, a first groove (W1) formed on the surface, and a first groove (W2) formed on the surface. Comprising
The nucleic acid detection cassette is
At least an opening of the space (W) is defined by being closed by the first sheet-like member or the second sheet-like member, communicated with the detection unit and the pump unit, and from the detection unit to the nucleic acid A waste liquid chamber section for receiving a waste liquid containing a sample and holding the waste liquid;
A first flow path (1W1) defined by the first groove (W1) being covered with the first sheet-like member;
A first flow path (1W2) defined by the first groove (W2) being covered by the first sheet-like member;
The first flow path (1W1) and the first flow path (1W2) are connected to the waste liquid chamber section,
In the waste liquid chamber section, together with the gas pressure supplied by the pump section, the waste liquid from the detection section flows in from the first flow path (1W1), and the pump section from the first flow path (1W1). 4. The nucleic acid detection cassette according to claim 3, wherein the gas pressure supplied by is discharged toward the pump through the first flow path (1W2). The plate-like member further includes a space (I) having an opening on the surface or the facing surface, a second through hole (I), a first groove (I1) formed on the surface, and the surface A first groove (I2) formed on the second surface and a second groove (I) provided on the facing surface,
The nucleic acid detection cassette is
Insertion that is defined by closing at least an opening of the space (I) by the first sheet-like member or the second sheet-like member, communicates with the pump unit and the detection unit, and holds an insertion agent Agent chamber section;
A first flow path (1I1) defined by the first groove (I1) being covered by the first sheet-like member;
A first flow path (1I2) defined by the first groove (I2) being covered by the first sheet-like member;
A second flow path (2I) defined by the second groove (I) being covered with the second sheet-like member;
A third flow path (3I) defined by the second through hole (I) being covered with the first sheet-like member and the second sheet-like member;
A valve unit (I) for switching between opening and closing between the pump unit and the intercalating agent chamber unit or between the detecting unit and the intercalating agent chamber unit;
The first channel (1I1) and the second channel (2I) are connected to the intercalating agent chamber,
The third channel (3I) is connected to the second channel (2I),
The first channel (1I2) is connected to the third channel (3I),
When the valve part (S) and the valve part (B) are closed and the valve part (I) is opened,
The intercalating agent held in the intercalating agent chamber is applied to the intercalating agent chamber by applying the gas pressure supplied by the pump unit from the first flow path (1I1) to the intercalating agent chamber. The nucleic acid detection cassette according to claim 4, wherein the nucleic acid detection cassette is discharged through a flow path (2I), the third flow path (3I), and the first flow path (1I2). The region of the first sheet-like member covering at least the first through hole (A) is made of a flexible material,
An area of at least the first through hole (A) of the second sheet-like member is made of a flexible material,
The first through hole (A) and the first flow path (1A1) by pressing the first sheet-like member from the outside against the opening on the surface side of the first through hole (A) And the connection between the first through hole (A) and the first flow path (1AW) are simultaneously blocked,
The second through-hole (A) and the second flow path (2A) by pressing the second sheet-like member from the outside against the opening on the opposite surface side of the first through-hole (A). The nucleic acid detection cassette according to claim 1, wherein the connection between the two is blocked. A nucleic acid detection device used by inserting the nucleic acid detection cassette according to claim 1,
The amplification chamber section is heated, and the first sheet-like member is pressed against the opening on the surface side of the first through-hole (A), thereby the first through-hole (A) and the first Connection between one flow path (1A1) is blocked, and the second sheet-like member is pressed against the opening on the opposite surface side of the first through-hole (A) to thereby form the first through-hole. (A) and a first valve mechanism that prevents connection between the second flow path (2A);
A pump mechanism for applying a pressing force to the pump unit to provide a pumping action;
A nucleic acid detection apparatus comprising:

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