JP3380542B2 - Biological sample analysis method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent the measured analysis values of immunoassay items from being affected by the carry over between samples even when repeatedly used pipette nozzles are used for the sampling for biological analysis item. SOLUTION: The sampling for analysis units 200 and 820 used for biochemical analysis items is performed by means of dispensing sections 202 and 840 using repeatedly used pipette nozzles and the sampling for analysis units 100 and 810 used for immunoassay items is performed by means of dispensing devices 102 and 830 using diposable nozzle tips. A sample container containing a sample to be subjected to both the biochemical analysis and immunoassay items is transferred so that the sample may be sampled first by means of the nozzle tips, and then, by means of the pipette nozzles.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a technique for analyzing a biological sample, and more particularly to a sample analysis method capable of collecting a biological sample using a plurality of dispensing devices.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Analyzing a biological sample such as blood or urine derived from a patient is widely performed for diagnosing a pathological condition, and an automated analyzer is used in a hospital or a clinical laboratory. .

In many cases, the test results obtained by one automatic analyzer are not sufficient for diagnosing pathological conditions. In such a case, it is necessary to collect test data from a plurality of analyzers. The analysis system disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-281113 is configured so that one system can analyze many kinds of analysis items. This Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9
In the −281113 publication, a plurality of analysis units for biochemical analysis are arranged along the transport line of the sample rack,
An analysis system has been proposed in which the sample rack from the rack supply unit is stopped at any of the analysis units and a sample on the sample rack is dispensed by a pipette nozzle.

Further, US Pat. No. 5,470,534 is
The figure shows an analysis system in which a biochemical analyzer, an immunoanalyzer, a nucleic acid analyzer, etc. are arranged along the transport path of a sample container and the same sample can be measured by each analyzer. In this example, whether or not to advance the sample to the second measurement stage is determined according to the analysis result of the first measurement stage. A biochemical analysis item is analyzed in the first measurement stage, and a sample that needs to be transferred to the second measurement stage to determine a pathological condition is analyzed in the second measurement stage by an immunoanalyzer and / or a nucleic acid analyzer. .

On the other hand, in an apparatus for automatically analyzing a biological sample, it is general that a single pipette probe is used to dispense a large number of samples one after another, so that the previous sample remains on the pipette probe. The problem of subsequent sample contamination due to A known example dealing with this type of carryover is, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 4-169851. In this example, using a row of reaction vessels formed on the same circumference, analysis of biochemical analysis items such as measuring the components normally contained in blood and the agglutination reaction of latex particles are used. It has been shown to carry out the analysis of immunoassay items such as detecting the antigens or antibodies.

Further, according to Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 4-169851, the reagent dispensing probe after dispensing the reagent of the immunological analysis item is washed with a washing liquid for a sufficient washing time or the discharge amount of the washing liquid is changed. After washing with a large amount, and after dispensing the reagent for biochemical analysis items, wash the reagent dispensing probe for a short time or by washing with a small discharge amount of the washing liquid, thereby wasting the washing liquid. It describes that consumption is eliminated, and points out that even in the case of a sample dispensing probe other than the reagent, it is possible to eliminate wasteful consumption of the cleaning liquid by adjusting the flow rate of the cleaning liquid.

As another type of dispensing a biological sample, it is known to use a disposable nozzle tip. For example, in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 8-146010, a tip holder is provided within a movable range of a coupling pipe capable of coupling nozzle tips, and a plurality of nozzle tips are arranged to move from a tip rack to a tip holder position. After transporting one nozzle tip by the gripper, the nozzle tip is coupled to the end of the coupling tube on the tip holder, the sample sucked into the coupled nozzle tip is discharged to the reaction container, and the sample It is shown to remove the nozzle tip from the coupling tube at the tip detachment station after dispensing.

Further, in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 25755/1990, a plurality of reaction sections are arranged in the vicinity of a transfer line for transferring a sample rack, and a bypass line and a sample dilution section are arranged between the transfer line and each reaction section. The analysis device described above is described. It has been suggested that multiple reaction sites can be configured to perform colorimetric, electrode-based and immunological analysis. In this example, the sample rack is transferred from the transfer line to the bypass line by the rack changer attached to the transfer line, and the dilution arm dispenses the sample from the sample rack on the bypass line to the sample dilution section, and the The injection arm dispenses the sample from the sample dilution section to the reaction section. In this example, it is pointed out that it is desirable to arrange the plurality of reaction parts in an order that avoids mutual contamination between samples.

[0009]

Many methods for measuring immunoassay items include an operation of binding a labeling substance to a solid phase by utilizing an antigen-antibody reaction (that is, an immune reaction). When it is necessary to analyze the immunological analysis item by such a method and the biochemical analysis item by the method of measuring the reaction solution resulting from the chemical reaction by absorption measurement, or the DNA analysis item and the biochemical analysis item are analyzed. If necessary, it is convenient to handle the sample that a plurality of analysis units are arranged in the analysis system and the same sample container is commonly used for each analysis unit. US Pat. No. 5,470,534 relating to such analytical systems does not describe any measures to avoid carryover between samples. In addition, JP-A-9-28111
Although the publication No. 3 shows a plurality of analysis units, a biochemical analysis unit and an immunological analysis unit should be installed side by side.
Alternatively, it does not describe that a biochemical analysis unit and a DNA analysis unit are provided side by side.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication (Kokai) No. 4-169851 proposes that the same dispensing probe that is repeatedly used is used for both biochemical analysis items and immunological analysis items, and carryover is avoided only by a washing operation. However, practically applicable washing time and washing flow rate are limited, so it is difficult to eliminate the effect of carryover on the measured values for immunoassay items that cause problems even in the presence of extremely small amounts of residual sample. .

According to the configuration using the disposable nozzle tip disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 8-146010, since the nozzle tip is replaced for each sample, there is no fear of carryover between samples. However, since the nozzle tip connection and disconnection operations are associated with each sample,
When a large number of analysis items such as biochemical analysis items must be processed in a short time, there is a problem in that sufficient processing capacity cannot be obtained.

In the analyzer disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 25755/1990, there is no difference in the structure of a plurality of reaction parts, and mutual contamination between samples can be avoided only by the arrangement order of the reaction parts. Is intended. However,
Since the diluting arm and the dispensing arm are repeatedly used in common for all the samples, it is difficult to avoid carryover between the samples due to the interposition of these arms.

An object of the present invention is to prevent the measured value of an immunoassay item from being affected by carryover between samples even if a pipette nozzle which is repeatedly used for sampling for a biochemical assay item is used. It is in.

Another object of the present invention is to analyze biochemical analysis items and immunological analysis items by different analysis units, without lowering the processing capacity for biochemical analysis items, and for immunological analysis items. It is to provide a method capable of avoiding carryover between samples.

Another object of the present invention is to provide both a dispensing device of the type that collects a sample using a pipette nozzle that is repeatedly used and a dispensing device that collects a sample using a disposable nozzle tip. The purpose is to enable carry-over between samples to be avoided.

It is another object of the present invention to analyze a particular sample in which both analytes with a high need to avoid carryover and those with a low need to avoid carry over are analyzed. It is an object of the present invention to provide a method capable of processing a specific sample so as not to affect the analysis result by carryover with other samples.

[0017]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a biological sample in which a biological sample contained in a container is collected by using a pipette, transferred to another container, and the transferred biological sample is analyzed according to an analysis item. An analysis method for a biological sample, wherein sampling with a pipette used for an analysis item with a high carryover avoidance level is performed prior to sampling with a pipette used for an analysis item with a lower carryover avoidance level In (1), the analysis item with the carryover avoidance level lower than that of the analysis item of the biological sample collected by the biological sample collection by the pipette used for the analysis item with the high carryover avoidance level is judged to be unnecessary. The biological sample analysis method for performing biological sample collection with a pipette used for .

The present invention is also a method for analyzing a biological sample, in which a biological sample contained in a container is sampled with a pipette, transferred to another container, and the transferred biological sample is analyzed according to the analysis item. The same biological sample,
When collecting with multiple pipettes according to the carry-over avoidance level between biological samples and performing analysis with multiple analysis items, sample collection with a pipette used for analysis items with high carry-over avoidance level In a method for analyzing biological samples that is performed prior to sample collection with a pipette used for analysis items with a lower carryover avoidance level, biological samples collected by biological sample collection with a pipette used for analysis items with a higher carryover avoidance level The method for analyzing a biological sample is characterized by performing a biological sample collection with a pipette used for an analysis item having a carryover avoidance level lower than that of the analysis item for which the re-measurement is determined to be unnecessary.

The present invention is also a method for analyzing a biological sample, in which a biological sample contained in a container is sampled using a pipette, transferred to another container, and the transferred biological sample is analyzed according to the analysis item. And, the analysis item of the same biological sample is divided in advance according to the carryover avoidance level between samples, and a pipette used for sample collection for the analysis item having a high carryover avoidance level, and
The pipette used for sample collection for analysis items with a lower carryover avoidance level is different, and the sample collection for analysis items with a higher carryover avoidance level is different from that for analysis items with a lower carryover avoidance level. In the analysis method of the biological sample performed prior to the sample collection performed for this purpose, it is determined that re-measurement is not required for the analysis item of the biological sample collected by the biological sample collection with the pipette used for the analysis item with a high carryover avoidance level. The method for analyzing a biological sample is characterized by performing biological sample collection with a pipette used for an analysis item having a carryover avoidance level lower than that.

[0020]

[0021]

[0022]

[0023]

The present invention also provides a method for analyzing a biological sample, in which a sample rack having a sample is positioned in at least one of a plurality of analysis units, and a sample collected from the sample rack is analyzed by the analysis unit. In, a sample is processed in an analyzer having a first analyzer having a dispenser using a disposable nozzle tip and a second analyzer having a dispenser using a pipette nozzle repeatedly used A specific sample rack having a specific sample to be analyzed by the first and second analysis units,
Transporting to the first analysis unit prior to transporting to the analysis unit, and collecting the specific sample in the first analysis unit, the specific sampled in the first analysis unit Before the sample rack is sent to the second analysis unit, it is temporarily held in the standby section, it is determined whether or not re-measurement of the specific sample by the first analysis unit is necessary. When the re-measurement is not possible, the specific sample rack is transported from the standby section to the second analysis unit, and the specific sample is collected by the pipette nozzle, and the determination result requires re-measurement. In this case, the specific sample rack is transported from the standby unit to the first analysis unit, and the specific sample is collected by the first analysis unit for remeasurement. When, and sampling is after completion the specific sample rack for re-measured conveyed to the second analysis unit, is characterized in the analysis method of the biological sample collected above a particular sample by the pipette nozzle.

In the above, the sample rack having a sample that does not need to be analyzed by the first analysis unit may be transported to the second analysis unit without stopping at the first analysis unit.

Further, the present invention provides a method for analyzing a biological sample, which uses an analyzer equipped with a plurality of analysis units having a sample collection function and can perform sample collection of analysis items suitable for each analysis unit. The analysis unit includes a first analysis unit that receives a sample that is collected by using a nozzle tip that is replaced as the sample is changed, and a sample that is collected by using a pipette nozzle that is commonly used for different samples. When collecting a specific sample for analyzing a plurality of analysis items having different carryover avoidance levels, before collecting the specific sample for the analysis item having a low carryover avoidance level. , Sample the analysis items of the specific sample with high carryover avoidance level to the first analysis unit, and After the analysis item having a high carryover avoidance level analyzed by the first analysis unit is determined not to be re-measured, the analysis item having a low carryover avoidance level of the specific sample is sampled to the second analysis unit. There is a feature in the sample analysis method.

[0027]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a sample container containing a biological sample such as serum, plasma or urine is handled while loaded in a sample rack as a container holder. The sample rack may be of any type as long as it can hold one or more sample containers, but the following examples show an example of holding up to five sample containers.

FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of an embodiment of an automatic analyzer to which the present invention is applied. In FIG.
The rack supply device 10 operates so as to supply the sample rack 2 to the rack transfer line 60 of the rack transfer device.
The rack supply apparatus 10 has an area where a tray on which a plurality of sample racks are arranged can be placed, and an identification reading unit 15.
Specimen rack 2 having sample in rack supply device 10
Since it is loaded, it may be referred to as a rack loading unit.
The sample racks 2 loaded into the rack supply device are pushed out one by one toward the entrance side of the rack transport line 60 by a known rack pushing mechanism. The sample rack 2 pushed out is moved to the reading position of the identification reading unit 15 by a moving device such as a movable hook.

The sample rack 2 is, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped support, and can hold a plurality of sample containers 5 in a row along the length direction of the sample rack. A bar code label in which rack identification information including a rack type and a rack number is encoded is attached to such a sample rack 2. Further, a bar code label in which sample information such as a container identification number, a patient code, a department code and a sample reception number is encoded is attached to each sample container 5.

The automatic analyzer of FIG. 1 is equipped with a rack storage section 30 in which the sample racks 2 that have been transported by the rack transport line 60 are stored in an orderly manner. Rack feeder 1
The rack transfer line 60 is provided between 0 and the rack storage section 30.
An electrolyte item analysis unit 300, an immune item or DNA item analysis unit 100, a biochemical item analysis unit 200, and a standby unit 20 as a standby unit are arranged in this order from the side closer to the rack supply device.

The electrolyte item analysis unit 300 dispenses a sample from the sample rack stopped at the sample collection position of the analysis unit 300 on the rack transport line 60 to the dilution container 305 built in the analysis unit 300. It has a pouring device 302. This dispensing device 302
Has a reusable pipette nozzle, i.e. a commonly used dispensing nozzle for different samples,
The sample in the sample container on the sample rack is sucked and held in the pipette nozzle, and the held predetermined amount of sample is discharged to the dilution container 305. The sample diluted with the diluting solution in the diluting container 305 is guided to the flow cell by an intake pipe (not shown), and electrolyte components such as sodium ions, potassium ions, and chlorine ions contained in the sample are arranged in the flow cell. It is measured by an ion selective electrode corresponding to each ion. The analysis unit controller 301 built in the analysis unit 300 performs a calculation for obtaining the concentration of each electrolyte component based on the detection signal of each ion, and reports the obtained measured value to the overall controller 50.

Immune item or DNA item analysis unit 1
As described later, 00 uses a disposable nozzle tip, sucks and holds the sample in the nozzle tip from the sample container on the sample rack positioned at the sample collection position of the bypass line 61, and holds a predetermined amount of the held sample. A dispensing device 102 is provided which operates to dispense the sample into the reaction vessel on the reaction disk 103. The dispenser 102 replaces the nozzle tip as the sample changes. For example, if there is only one analytical item to be analyzed in the analysis unit 100 for the previous sample, the dispensing device 102 will display 1 for the previous sample.
After the first sampling operation, the used nozzle tip is removed and a new nozzle tip is installed. On the other hand, when there are three analysis items to be analyzed by the analysis unit 100 for the next sample, the dispensing device 102 removes the used nozzle tip after three sampling operations for the three reaction vessels. , Install a new nozzle tip for subsequent samples.

When the analysis unit 100 is a unit for analyzing the immunological analysis item, the sample collected in the reaction disk 103 is mixed with the reagent for the immune reaction, and is necessary after the immune reaction between the sample and the reagent. Accordingly, the analysis item is measured through further steps. In this case, immune response is a synonym for antigen-antibody reaction. Analysis unit 1
When 00 is a unit for analyzing a DNA analysis item, the sample collected in the reaction disk 103 is mixed with the reagent for nucleic acid analysis, and after the hybridization reaction, the site to which the label is bound is cleaved with a restriction enzyme. Then, the analysis result of the DNA analysis item is obtained based on the measurement of the label.

One embodiment for obtaining the measured value of the immunoassay item by utilizing the immune reaction between the sample and the reagent is a method of measuring a labeling substance using a solid phase such as magnetic particles sensitized with an antibody. is there. For example, an analyte in a sample and a solid phase are bound by an immunoreaction, a reagent having a labeling substance is bound to the first complex by an immunoreaction, and then the solid phase and the liquid phase are separated. The separated liquid phase is introduced into a flow cell, and the labeling substance is measured by fluorescence photometry or chemiluminescence photometry. Alternatively, the solid phase after liquid phase separation is guided to a photometric position, and the label bound on the solid phase is measured by the chemiluminescence method or the electrochemiluminescence method. Analysis unit control unit 101 built in the analysis unit 100
Manages the operation control of each mechanism in the analysis unit 100 and the calculation of measurement data of analysis items.

As will be described later, the analysis unit 200 for biochemical items includes a pipetting nozzle 202 that is repeatedly used, that is, a pipetting device 202 that collects a sample using a pipetting nozzle that is commonly used. This dispensing device 202
Is sucking and holding the sample near the tip of the pipette nozzle from the sample container on the sample rack positioned at the sample collection position of the bypass line 62 via the rack transport line 60, and holding a predetermined amount of the sample in the reaction disk 2
03 to discharge into the reaction container. The chemical reaction between the sample and the reagent proceeds in the reaction container, and the optical characteristics of the formed reaction solution are measured. In this example, the reaction solution is optically measured in a state where the reaction solution is contained in the reaction container, and the measurement value of the biochemical analysis item is obtained. Analysis unit 20
The analysis unit control unit 201 built in 0 controls the operation of each mechanical unit in the analysis unit 200 and the calculation of measurement data of analysis items.

In the analyzer shown in FIG. 1, the rack carrying device for carrying a sample rack having a sample is a rack carrying line 60 and a bypass line 6 for the analyzing unit 100.
1 and a bypass line 62 for the analysis unit 200. Each bypass line 61, 62 is a rack transfer line 6
It is formed substantially parallel to 0, receives the sample rack from the rack transport line 60 on the upstream side of the bypass line, and delivers the sample rack to which the sample has been dispensed to the rack transport line 60 on the downstream side of the bypass line. Rack transfer line 60 and bypass lines 61, 6
The sample rack on 2 is transported to a predetermined position by a known transporting means in which a belt conveyor or a movable hook is driven by a motor.

The sample rack 2 having the sample is positioned in at least one of the plurality of analysis units, and after the sample is taken from the sample rack by the corresponding analysis unit, it is transported to the standby unit 20. The sample rack that may be retested is held in the standby unit 20 until the necessity of remeasurement is determined by the control unit. The sample rack that has entered the standby unit 20 is moved in a u shape. The sample rack whose measurement result in the analysis unit is determined not to be remeasured for all the samples on the sample rack is immediately stored in the rack storage section 30.
However, the sample rack having the sample whose measurement result in the related analysis unit is determined to require re-measurement is moved from the standby unit 20 to the return line 65, and is returned to the entrance side of the rack transfer line 60 by the return line 65. It is transported, again delivered to the rack transport line 60, transported to the analysis unit to be remeasured, and sampled.

As described above, the standby unit 20 temporarily puts the sample rack subjected to the sample collection in any of the plurality of analysis units on standby, but the analysis unit 100 for the immunity item collects the sample. The received sample rack is treated specially. That is, the three analysis units 100, 2
00 and 300 or two analysis units 100 and 2
00 is called a specific sample, and a sample rack having the specific sample is called a specific sample rack for convenience, this specific sample rack will be referred to as another analysis unit. Prior to transport to the immunoassay unit, the specific sample is first transported to the immune item analysis unit 100, and a specific sample is sampled by the nozzle tip connected to the dispensing device 102. This specific sample rack is put in the standby unit 20 without stopping at another analysis unit. Then, when it is determined that the re-measurement of the specific sample is necessary based on the measurement result by the analysis unit 100, the specific sample rack waiting in the standby unit 20 is returned via the return line 65. Hand over to the rack carrier.

The specific sample rack for remeasurement does not stop at another analysis unit, and the analysis unit 1 for the immunity item is used.
The sample is transported to the rack by the rack transport device and a specific sample is taken for re-measurement. At this time, the dispensing device 1
A new pipette tip is connected to the nozzle connection tube of 02. Such an operation is performed when only one sample container is held in the sample rack, and in the case of a plurality of samples, it is necessary to satisfy the collection of all the samples, so the sample rack transport operation becomes complicated. .

The operation of the rack supply device 10, the standby unit 20, the rack storage unit 30, the transfer device including the transfer line 60, and the return line 65 in FIG. The reading result by the bar code reader 16 as the identification information reading device of the sample rack and the sample container of the rack supply device 10 is also transmitted to the overall control unit 50. The integrated control unit 50 has a storage unit 51, an operation unit 52 having a keyboard, and a CRT 5 as a screen display device.
3, Printer 5 for outputting analysis results of each sample
4 and a floppy (registered trademark) disk memory 55 storing the operation program of the analyzer.

Items to be analyzed for each sample on each sample rack are designated in advance by the operation section 52 before the start of the analysis operation and are stored in the storage section 51. The information read by the code reader 16 and the already-stored analysis item information are collated, and the analysis unit to which each sample rack should be transported can be determined based on the collation result.

Although the example of FIG. 1 shows an example in which one analysis unit 100 used for the analysis measurement of the immunological analysis item and one analysis unit 200 used for the analysis measurement of the biochemical analysis item are arranged, respectively. Each of these analysis units has two units along the rack transport line 60.
It is also possible to arrange more than one table.

Next, details of the configuration example of the analysis unit for the immune analysis item will be described with reference to FIGS. The analysis unit 100 includes a dispensing device 102 for collecting a sample, a reaction disk 103 having a constant temperature maintaining function and capable of rotationally transferring a mounted reaction container 105, and a reagent bottle 117 in which a plurality of types of reagents are combined for each analysis item. Are arranged along the circumference and are rotatable, a reagent dispensing pipetter 110 for dispensing a reagent from a reagent bottle 117 to a reaction container 105 on the reaction disc 103, and a sample formed on the reaction disc 103. Detection unit 1
Shipper mechanism 130 to be introduced into 40, parts supply area 1
A transport mechanism 120 and the like for transporting the unused reaction container 105 and the unused nozzle tip 125 in 35 to a predetermined position by a grip portion is provided.

The dispensing device 102 for sampling is shown in FIG.
It has a connecting pipe 104 to which a disposable nozzle tip 125 as shown in FIG. The connecting pipe 104 is in communication with a pump system 109 having an intake / exhaust mechanism, and is held by a movable arm 106 that moves up and down and horizontally.

When the analysis operation is started, the transport mechanism 120
Holds the disposable unused reaction container 105 placed in the component supply area 135 by the grip portion 128 and conveys it to the reaction disc 103, and releases the grip at the position 121 to place the reaction container on the reaction disc. . Next, the transport mechanism 120 grips the unused nozzle chip 125 placed in the component supply area 135 with the grip portion 128, releases the grip at the coupling position 107, and mounts the nozzle chip.

The sample rack 2 transported from the rack supply device 10 through the rack transport line 60 is the analysis unit 1
00 to the bypass line 61, sampling position
Moved to 111. The dispensing device 102 includes the movable arm 10
6 is positioned at the connecting position 107, and the connecting pipe 104 is lowered to fit an unused nozzle tip 125 to the tip of the connecting pipe 104 (see FIG. 3). Next, the dispensing device 102 swivels the connecting pipe 104 to the sampling position, inserts the tip of the nozzle tip 125 to slightly below the liquid level of the sample in the sample container 5 on the sample rack, and a predetermined amount of sample is placed. The suction is held in the nozzle tip 125.

Since the unused reaction container 105 has been moved from the position 121 to the discharge position 112, the dispensing device 102
Discharges a predetermined amount of the sample held in the nozzle tip 125 into the reaction container 105 at the discharge position 112. After the required number of samplings for one sample, the pipetting device 102 disconnects the connecting tube 104 from the disconnection position 1.
08, the used nozzle tip 125 is removed from the connecting pipe 104. The operation of removing the nozzle tip is achieved by bringing the upper end surface of the nozzle tip into contact with the lower surface of the split groove that is larger than the outer diameter of the connecting pipe 104 and smaller than the outer diameter of the upper end of the nozzle tip 125, and raises the connecting pipe 104. It The removed nozzle tips are collected in the waste box. When there are a plurality of analysis items to be analyzed by the analysis unit 100 for samples in the same sample container,
After continuously using one nozzle tip for sampling of those analysis items, the nozzle tip is removed from the connecting pipe 104. This reduces the number of exhausted nozzle tips.

The reaction container that has received the sample is moved to the reagent receiving position 113 by the reaction disk 103. The reagent dispensing pipetter 110 sucks the dispersion liquid of the magnetic fine particles as a solid phase into the pipette nozzle at the position 118 and discharges the dispersion liquid to the reaction container on the reagent receiving position 113. Along with this, the first immune reaction in which the analyte, for example, the antigen in the sample, binds to the solid phase is started. After a predetermined time, the reagent dispensing pipetter 110 discharges the reagent containing the labeling substance sucked into the pipette nozzle at the position 119 to the reaction container positioned at the reagent receiving position 113 again. Along with this, the second immune reaction in which the labeling substance binds to the analyte in the reaction container is started. The pipette nozzle of the reagent dispensing pipetter 110 is washed and used for each reagent dispensing.

After that, the reaction container 105 containing the reaction solution of the immune reaction is positioned at the suction position 114 by the reaction disk 103. The sipper mechanism 130 introduces the reaction liquid from the reaction container at the suction position 114 into the detection unit 140 through the suction nozzle. In the detection unit 140, a liquid phase containing a substance that is not bound to the magnetic particles flows while the magnetic particles are adsorbed on the wall surface of the flow path by the magnet. Thereby, the solid phase and the liquid phase are separated. The separated liquid phase is guided to the measurement unit, and the fluorescence or chemiluminescence of the labeling substance contained in the liquid phase is measured. Alternatively, the separation site and the measurement unit are also used, and chemiluminescence or electrochemiluminescence is generated in the labeling substance bound to the magnetic particles via the analyte, and the measurement is performed. After that, the shipper mechanism 130 sucks the cleaning liquid from the cleaning tank 131 through the suction nozzle, and the detection unit 1
The inside of the channel 40 is washed. The used reaction vessel is removed from the reaction disc 103 at position 121 by the transport mechanism.

Next, details of the configuration example of the analysis unit for biochemical analysis items in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the analysis unit 200 for analyzing and processing a biochemical analysis item includes a translucent reaction container 205.
Has a reaction disk 203 in which are arranged concentrically. Water kept at a predetermined temperature (for example, 37 ° C.) is supplied to the constant temperature bath of the reaction disk 203 from a constant temperature water supply device 230.
There are two reagent supply systems, and the first reagent disk 215
Reagents selected from a large number of reagent bottles 217 arranged according to the analysis item are dispensed into the reaction container 205 on the reaction disk 203 by the reagent dispensing pipettor 210,
A reagent selected from a large number of reagent bottles 218 arranged on the second reagent disc 216 according to the analysis item is dispensed by the reagent dispensing pipettor 211 to the reaction container 205 on the reaction disc. The stirring device 219 stirs the mixture of the sample and the reagent in the reaction container.

The dispensing device 202 for collecting a sample is equipped with a pipette nozzle 225 capable of sucking and discharging a liquid, and the pipette nozzle is arranged at a sample collecting position on the bypass line 62 and a sample discharging position 204 on the reaction disk 203. Can be positioned in the probe cleaning tank 207. The pipette nozzle 225 in which one sample is dispensed on the sample rack 2 is washed with the washing liquid on the outer wall surface and the inner wall surface of the pipette nozzle in the probe washing tank 207 before another sample is collected, and a large number of samples are sampled. Repeatedly used for.

The reaction liquid of the sample and the reagent formed in the reaction container 205 on the reaction disk 203 is irradiated with the light flux from the multi-wavelength light source 235 while being contained in the reaction container. The light transmitted through the reaction vessel is a multi-wavelength photometer 24
0, the wavelength corresponding to the analysis item is selectively detected, and the photometric signal is digitized by the analog-digital converter 245 and input to the analysis unit control unit 201 for arithmetic processing. The photometric reaction container is cleaned by a container cleaning unit (not shown) and moved to a sample discharge position so as to receive a new sample.

In the analysis unit 200 of FIG. 4, the sample rack 2 transported through the rack transport line 60 and transferred to the bypass line 62 is positioned at the sample collection position on the bypass line 62. The dispensing device 202 inserts the tip of the pipette nozzle 225 to slightly below the liquid surface of the sample in the sample container 5 at the sample collection position, sucks and holds a predetermined amount of sample near the tip of the nozzle, and holds the pipette nozzle 225. The sample is moved to the sample discharge position 204 of the reaction container row. Then, the sample held in the nozzle is discharged into the cleaned reaction container 205 at the discharge position.

The reaction vessel 205 that received the sample was
The reaction disk 203 moves to the addition position of the first reagent, and the reagent dispensing pipetter 210 dispenses the first reagent corresponding to the analysis item. Next, the mixture in the reaction container is stirred by the stirring mechanism 219, and the chemical reaction between the sample and the reagent is advanced. In the case of an analysis item that requires the second reagent, the second reagent is further added by the reagent dispensing pipetter 211 at the addition position of the second reagent. The reaction container containing the reaction solution is transported so as to cross the light flux at the photometric position 241, and the absorbance of the reaction solution is obtained based on the transmitted light at that time, and the analysis unit control unit 201 determines the measurement target object in the sample. The concentration or enzyme activity value is calculated and stored in the storage unit 51 of the overall control unit 50.

Next, an operation example of the automatic analyzer in the embodiment of FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. Before starting the analysis operation, the analysis items required for each patient-derived sample are input through the operation unit 52. Each sample is usually commissioned to test multiple analytical items. In this automatic analyzer, analysis items that are highly required to avoid carryover of samples are set in advance and stored in the storage unit 51 of the overall control unit 50.

When an instruction to set the analysis conditions is given from the operation unit 52, the analysis condition setting screen 70 is displayed on the CRT 53 which is a screen display device. As shown in FIG. 5, this screen 70 has a routine operation screen call button 7 at the top.
1, reagent management screen call button 72, calibration screen call button 73, accuracy management screen call button 7
4 and a utility screen call button 75 are arranged, and the respective screens are displayed in the center by pressing each button with a touch panel method with a finger or operating a mouse or the like and clicking with a pointer. . FIG. 5 shows an example of calling the corresponding screen by instructing the utility screen call button 75. Analysis condition setting screen 7
A help button 76 is arranged below 0, and when this button is instructed, an explanation is displayed for screen operation.

Further, in either the left or right area of the analysis condition setting screen 70, a stop instruction button 81 of the analyzer and a stop instruction button 8 of the sampling operation during the analysis operation are provided.
2, an alarm screen call button 83, a screen call button 84 showing the status of each analysis unit and rack transportation,
A print instruction button 85 for the printer 54, a start instruction button 86 for the analyzer, and the like are arranged. The above-mentioned buttons are always displayed while the analysis condition setting screen 70 is displayed.

Now, the utility screen call button 75
Is selected, the system area 15 is displayed in the display area 150.
1, maintenance 152, application 153, calculation item 154, carryover 155, report 156, unit configuration 157 screen call buttons appear, addition instruction button 161, database write instruction button 162 to floppy disk memory, A delete instruction button 163 and a read instruction button 164 from the floppy disk memory appear. When the application screen call button 153 is selected in this state, a list list 170 showing a plurality of analysis items and sample types appears, and detailed screen call buttons 171 to 174 appear.

Further, when the analysis button 171 is selected from the detailed screen call buttons, the display area 180 is displayed.
A screen as shown in FIG. 5 appears. That is, a sample amount setting column 181, a reagent dispensing amount setting column 182, a carryover avoidance level setting column 183 between samples, and a storage instruction button 184 are displayed.

In the screen of FIG. 5, the analysis items displayed in the list list 170 are TSH for thyrotropin and T4 for thyroxine.
ne) and FT4 is free thyroxine (free thyroxi
ne), and T3 is tri-iodothion
yronine), and CEA is an embryonal tumor antigen (carcino-emb
ryonic antigen), HCG is human chorionic gonadotropin, TNT is troponin T, HBsAg is hepatitis B surface antigen, and a
-HBs are antibodies against hepatitis B surface antigen. All of these are immunoassay items.

Now, of the analysis items of the list list 170, H
BsAg is selected, 30 μl is input as the sample collection amount in the sample amount setting field 181, and 70 μl is input as the first reagent R1 addition amount in the reagent dispensing amount setting field 182.
It is assumed that 60 μl is input as the addition amount of the second reagent R2, and 40 μl is input as the addition amount of the bead reagent. It is also assumed that the "high" level of "high" and "low" is selected and designated in the carry-over avoidance level setting field 183. The high / low level selection is made by the level selection button 187. Then, a storage instruction button 184
When is selected, it means that with respect to the HBsAg analysis item, the avoidance level of carryover between samples is instructed in association with the analysis item together with the sample amount and the reagent dispensing amount, and is stored in the storage unit 51.

Next, another analysis item displayed in the list list 170 is selected, and in the same manner, the sample amount, reagent dispensing amount,
By setting the carryover avoidance level according to the corresponding item, these conditions can be set one after another. Further, by selecting a plurality of analysis items from the list 170 and configuring the common carryover avoidance level to be instructed, it is possible to instruct the carryover avoidance level for a plurality of analysis items at once. It will be possible.

The level of "high" in the carry-over avoidance level setting field 183 causes the sampling to be executed under the condition that there is no carry-over between the samples. Specifically, each sample is replaced with a new one. The integrated control unit 50 controls the transport destination of the corresponding sample rack so as to execute the sample collection by the dispensing device using the disposable nozzle tip. When the “high level” is instructed for a specific analysis item, the storage unit 51 stores the specific analysis item that requires dispensing with a disposable nozzle tip. In contrast, "low"
Level is an indication that sampling may be performed using a dispenser with a pipette nozzle that is used repeatedly for multiple samples by washing,
The analysis item corresponding to this can be analyzed and measured by the analysis unit 200 and / or the analysis unit 300 in FIG.

The analysis conditions set by the setting screen as shown in FIG. 5 are continuously used corresponding to each analysis item unless the conditions are changed thereafter. Therefore, if the analysis item described below is input when the patient sample inspection request is made, the analysis conditions set in FIG. 5 are automatically applied.

As described above, in the analyzer of FIG.
For analysis items designated as having a special need for avoiding carryover between samples, that is, at the “high” level, the designation information is stored in the storage unit. Then, when the same analysis item as the already-indicated analysis item is selected through the analysis condition setting screen 70 for setting a new analysis condition thereafter, the stored information, that is, the information indicating that the carry-over avoidance is necessary is displayed. It operates so as to be output to the display device. In the case of the example in FIG. 5, when the analysis item is selected, “high” is displayed in the setting field 183.

Next, the work of the operator at the start of daily analysis work will be described. When the routine operation screen call button 71 is selected on the analysis condition setting screen 70, the item selection screen as shown in FIG.
It is displayed in 3. On this screen, a sample type selection field 251, a sample number input field 252, a patient identification number input field 253, a sample cup type selection field 254, an analysis item selection area 255, a front sample instruction button 256, and a rear sample instruction button. 257, a registration instruction button 258 is displayed. Of these, the analysis item selection area 255 has a reservation registration function for 5 pages, and 24 pages are provided for each page.
It has an item input field or an analysis item selection field. When the previous sample instruction button 256 is selected, the analysis item information regarding the sample immediately before the currently displayed sample is displayed instead of the current display content. When the subsequent sample instruction button 257 is selected, analysis item information regarding the sample immediately after the currently displayed sample is displayed.

The screen of FIG. 6 shows the analysis items selected on the first page of the analysis item selection area 255. The analysis items displayed are those for which AST is aspartate aminotransferase.
rase), ALT is alanine aminotransferase, IP is inorganic phosphorus, and TP is total protein (t).
is a total protein, Alb is albumin, and LD is lactated dehydrogenase.
nase), UA is uric acid, and CR
E is creatinine, Na is sodium ion, and K is potassium ion.

FIG. 6 shows an example in which 10 biochemical analysis items to be analyzed on the first page are selected for the serum sample with the sample number 1. Further, FIG. 7 is an example in which seven immune analysis items to be analyzed on the second page of the analysis item selection area 255 are selected for samples having the same sample number. By selecting the registration instruction button 258 after inputting all the analysis items requested to be inspected for the same sample, analysis and measurement reservations for a plurality of analysis items relating to the sample are made and stored in the storage unit 51. . Since the screen of the display area 150 is updated by this registration operation, the analysis item regarding the sample of the next sample number can be selected. Thus, the operator executes the work of selecting the analysis items one after another for all the samples requested for inspection. In the example of FIGS. 6 and 7, 17 analysis items are registered for the sample with the sample number 1.

When the reagent management screen call button 72 of the analysis condition setting screen 70 is selected, a setting screen of analysis items to be analyzed and measured by each analysis unit in the analysis apparatus of FIG. 1 is displayed. The assignment of the analysis item to each analysis unit is executed in advance before the input work of the requested analysis item for each sample as shown in FIG. When assigning which analysis item to process to each analysis unit, the level of carryover avoidance between samples set in FIG. 5 is reflected. That is, the "high" level analysis item is assigned to the analysis unit 100 having a dispensing device using a disposable nozzle tip.

On the other hand, when instructing an item to be analyzed for each sample during routine work, the relationship between the analysis item and the carry-over avoidance level and the analysis item assigned to each analysis unit are already determined by the automatic analyzer. Since the control unit is registered in the control unit, the control unit collates, for example, the requested analysis item relating to the sample of sample number 1, and determines which analysis unit of the plurality of analysis units should perform the analysis process. Incidentally, in the sample of sample No. 1, the electrolyte component is related to the analysis unit 300, the immune analysis item is related to the analysis unit 100, and the biochemical analysis item is related to the analysis unit. Therefore, in the case of the configuration example of FIG. Will be analyzed in the analysis unit.

When the analysis conditions for each analysis item are set through the screens shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, a screen for selecting an analysis item for which the analysis conditions should be set is displayed on the display device, and the screen is displayed. An instruction column that can instruct that it is necessary to avoid the influence of carryover between samples for the analysis item selected above is displayed on the display device. After that, the samples to be analyzed for the analysis items instructed by the display device that it is necessary to avoid the carryover and the analysis items not instructed for the avoidance are the analysis units 100, 200, 300, etc. When the sample is collected by the analysis unit, the sample of the analysis item that is not instructed to be avoided is sampled after the sampling of the analysis item that is instructed to be avoided is completed.

Next, an example of handling a sample by the automatic analyzer of FIG. 1 will be described. Here, for the sake of convenience, the first sample rack that is first supplied from the rack supply device 10 to the rack transport line 60 holds a single sample for analyzing and measuring electrolyte analysis items and biochemical analysis items.
It is assumed that the second sample rack to be supplied next holds a single sample for analyzing and measuring the electrolyte analysis item, the immunoassay item, and the biochemical analysis item. If multiple samples are loaded in the same sample rack,
The sample rack has a transport route so that samples of analysis items related to all the samples can be collected.

The first sample rack pushed out from the rack supply device 10 to the entrance side of the transport device is positioned at the reading position of the identification reading section 15, and the sample information of the bar code label attached to the sample container is read by the bar code reader. 16
Read by. The integrated control unit 50 collates the read information with the information of the analysis condition instructed for the sample, and based on the collation result, there is no specific analysis item that requires sample collection by the nozzle tip. And the requested analysis item corresponding to the analysis item assigned to each analysis unit, and the analysis unit to which the first sample rack should stop is determined.

Since the first sample rack has only a sample that does not need to be analyzed by the analysis unit 100 for immune items, after stopping by the analysis unit 300 for electrolyte items arranged from the side close to the rack supply device 10, It is decided by the integrated control unit 50 to transport the biochemical item to the analysis unit 200 for a stop. That is, the sample rack in this case is transported so as to drop in as necessary in the arrangement order of the plurality of analysis units. Both the analysis unit 200 and the analysis unit 300 are analysis units having a dispensing device using a pipette nozzle that is repeatedly used.

The first sample rack from which the identification information has been read is moved to the sample collection position of the electrolyte item analysis unit 300, and a portion of the sample on the sample rack is aspirated by the dispensing device 302 to serve as a receiving container. Is discharged to the dilution container 305. The first sample rack that has completed the sample collection in the analysis unit 300 is transported to the analysis unit 200 for biochemical items without stopping by the analysis unit for immune items.

The first sample rack is temporarily stopped at the entrance of the bypass line 62, then moved to the bypass line 62, and positioned at the sample collection position on the bypass line 62. The dispensing device 202 uses the pipette nozzle 225 to analyze the sample in the sample container on the first sample rack by the number of reaction containers 205 corresponding to the number of multiple items to be analyzed.
Repeat the operation of pipetting to. When the planned number of analysis items have been collected, the first sample rack is transferred to the rack transfer line 60 and then transferred into the standby unit 20.

The result of the analytical measurement by each analytical unit is
When the control unit determines that the remeasurement is not necessary, the first sample rack exits from the standby unit 20 and is stored in the rack storage unit 30. If the control unit determines that the measurement result of the analysis by the analysis unit 200 needs to be remeasured for one or more analysis items, the first sample rack waiting in the standby unit 20 returns to the return line. It is moved to 65, is conveyed to the entrance side of the conveyance line 60, and is then conveyed again to the analysis unit 200 by the conveyance line. Then, after the number of samples corresponding to the analysis items for remeasurement is sampled, the first sample rack is stored in the rack storage unit 30 via the transport line 60. Analysis units 200 and 30 for samples on the first sample rack
The analysis result of 0 can be output to the CRT 53 and the printer 54.

The second sample rack can be supplied from the rack supply device 10 to the inlet side of the rack transport device while the first sample rack is in the process of being processed. The second sample rack moved to the reading position of the identification reading unit 15 is read by the barcode reader 16 as sample information displayed as a barcode on the outer wall of the sample container. The control unit collates the analysis condition setting information, the instruction information input or selected from the operation unit 52, and the read information with respect to the sample on the second sample rack, and determines the analysis unit to which the second sample rack should stop. Since the biological sample held in the second sample rack is instructed to analyze and measure the electrolyte analysis item, the immunological analysis item, and the biochemical analysis item, the second sample rack has three analysis units in the configuration example of FIG. 100,
It is decided to drop in at 200 and 300.

In this case, the control unit recognizes that a plurality of analysis items instructed to be analyzed include a specific analysis item that requires dispensing with a disposable nozzle tip, and the corresponding analysis items are included. It is decided to first transport the second sample rack to the analysis unit 100, which can perform the injection. Based on this determination, the control unit controls the operation of the rack transport device so as to transport the second sample rack to the analysis unit 100 before transporting it to another analysis unit.
The analysis items assigned to the analysis unit 100 are not limited to immunological analysis items, and even biochemical analysis items are set to have a high carryover avoidance level between samples as shown in FIG. If the analysis item is a different analysis item, a sample is taken for the analysis item.

The second sample rack in the identification reading section 15 does not stop at the analysis unit 300 closest to the rack supply device, based on the determination of the transport order described above.
It is carried into the bypass line 61 corresponding to the second analysis unit 100 in the arrangement order via the rack transfer line 60,
It is located at the sampling position on the bypass line 61. The dispensing device 102 connects an unused disposable nozzle tip 125 to the connecting pipe 104, and dispenses the same sample on the second sample rack into the reaction containers 105 corresponding to the number of analysis items instructed. repeat. The second sample rack that has received the sample by the nozzle tip is transferred from the bypass line 61 to the rack transfer line 60, and is transferred to the standby unit 20 without stopping at the analysis unit 200 having the third arrangement order.

While the second sample rack is temporarily on standby in the standby unit 20, the analysis measurement result by the analysis unit 100 for the sample is obtained. The control unit
Based on the analysis measurement result by the analysis unit 100, it is determined whether or not remeasurement is necessary for each measured analysis item. When it is determined that the remeasurement is not necessary for any of the analysis items, the second sample rack that has been waiting in the standby unit 20 is moved to the return line 65, and the rack is returned to the return line 65. It is transported to the entrance side of the transport line 60. Next, the second sample rack stops at the analysis unit 300 for electrolyte items, and the dispensing device 30
Receive a specific sample with two pipette nozzles. Then, the second sample rack does not stop at the analysis unit 100, and the analysis unit 20 is arranged in the third arrangement order.
Pipette nozzle 2 of the pipetting device 202, which is transported to 0 and positioned at the sample collection position on the bypass line 62.
Receive a specific sample according to 25.

Analysis unit 300 and analysis unit 20
The second sample rack that has received the sample collection at 0 is transported to the standby unit 20 and temporarily stands by. Then, the necessity of re-measurement is determined based on the analysis measurement results by the second and third analysis units, and if re-measurement is not necessary, it is stored in the rack storage section 30. It is again conveyed to the analysis unit 300 and / or the analysis unit 200 via the return line 65 to receive a sample for remeasurement. After that, the second sample rack is transported and stored in the rack storage section 30.

On the other hand, when it is determined that re-measurement is required for any of the analysis items based on the analysis measurement result by the analysis unit 100 for the immunity item, the control unit causes the second sample rack to operate. Are transported as follows. That is, the second sample rack holding a specific sample is transferred from the standby unit 20 to the return line 65,
It is conveyed to the entrance side of the rack conveyance line 60 by the return line 65 and delivered to the rack conveyance line. The rack transport line 60 transports the second sample rack to the bypass line 61 corresponding to the analysis unit 100 without stopping at the analysis unit 300. At this point, the second sample rack has not been sampled by the other analysis units 200 and 300.

The dispensing device 102 of the analysis unit 100 is
A specific sample on the second sample rack positioned at the sample collection position on the bypass line 61 is re-measured for the analysis item determined to require re-measurement. Dispense using a new disposable nozzle tip.

Second sample collection for remeasurement
The sample rack is once moved to the rack transfer line 60,
Immediately bypass line 6 corresponding to analysis unit 200
It is transported to 2. Then, the pipette nozzle 225 of the dispensing device 202 receives the first sample collection. The second sample rack that has received a sample for a specific sample is transferred to the return line 65 via the rack transport line 60, then delivered to the rack transport line 60, and transported to the analysis unit 300. Then, the dispensing device 302
Receive a first sample with a pipette nozzle for a specific sample.

Alternatively, when the sample collection for the remeasurement of the analysis unit 100 is completed, the second sample rack is moved to the rack transfer line 60 and then to the return line 65, and the rack transfer line 60. It is also possible to control so as to be sampled for a specific sample in the analysis unit 300 and then in the analysis unit 200. In any case, the second sample rack that has been sampled by the analysis units 200 and 300 is the standby unit 2
It is transported to 0 and temporarily waits until the necessity of re-measurement by those analysis units is determined. The transport operation relating to the second sample rack after the necessity of remeasurement is determined is the same as that already described.

Depending on the patient sample, analysis of only one of the three analysis units of FIG. 1, analysis by two analysis units of immunity and biochemistry, or analysis of immunity and electrolytes can be performed.
Some can be done by a single analysis unit. In the case of a sample to be analyzed and measured by the analysis unit 100 and the analysis unit 200 or 300, first, a sample is sampled by the analysis unit 100, and then a sample for remeasurement is sampled by the same analysis unit 100, and then another sample is analyzed. The unit 200 or 300 is configured to collect a sample in the same sample container.

As described above, in the apparatus of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, after completion of the sample collection in the analysis unit having the dispensing apparatus using the disposable nozzle tip, the dispensing is performed by using the pipette nozzle which is washed and repeatedly used. Since it is configured to collect samples in the same sample container by an analysis unit with a device, it is possible to perform analysis and measurement while maintaining high reliability for analysis items for which the effect of carryover between samples must be strictly avoided. it can. In addition, analysis items that are not significantly affected by carryover between samples are sampled by a pipetting device that uses pipette nozzles that are repeatedly used, so that the processing capacity of the entire analysis device does not decrease so much. This is because the number of analysis items required for pipette nozzles is overwhelmingly larger than that for which it is necessary to use disposable nozzle tips.

Next, the configuration of another embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The automatic analyzer for biological sample analysis of FIG. 8 includes a sample container transfer device 800, a first analysis unit 810 for analyzing and measuring immune analysis items,
Second analysis unit 82 for analyzing and measuring biochemical analysis items
It has 0. The sample container transfer device 800 has a rotatable sample disk 801 capable of holding a large number of sample containers 802 in a circle.

The first dispensing device 830 is a dispensing device in which disposable nozzle tips are exchanged for each sample. The second dispensing device 840 is a dispensing device that uses a pipette nozzle that is washed and repeatedly used. First
The analysis unit 810 of (1) is capable of arranging a large number of reaction vessels 812 on the reaction disk 811 in an exchangeable manner, and includes a reaction vessel exchange device 813 for exchanging a used reaction vessel with an unused reaction vessel. Reaction disk 8
Into the reaction container 812 above 11, necessary reagents corresponding to the immunological analysis items are dispensed from the reagent supply unit 816.

The first dispensing device 830 can connect a disposable unused nozzle tip on the tip supply device 814 to the tip connecting pipe. The used nozzle tip is removed from the connecting pipe and discarded in the discard box 815. The first analysis unit 810 includes a measurement unit that measures the reaction liquid or solid phase after the immune reaction. The reaction disc 821 in the second analysis unit 820 has an array of translucent reaction vessels 822. In those reaction vessels 822,
The reagent supply unit 826 dispenses necessary reagents according to the biochemical analysis items. The second analysis unit 820 includes a measurement unit that measures the optical characteristics of the reaction liquid after the chemical reaction.

In the automatic analyzer of FIG. 8, it is assumed that a specific sample that needs to be analyzed and measured for both immunological analysis items and biochemical analysis items is contained in one specific sample container 802. When starting analysis on such a specific sample, the corresponding specific sample container is positioned at the sample collection position a by the sample disk 801. Then, a part of the specific sample is sucked into the nozzle tip by the first dispensing device 830 to which an unused nozzle tip is connected, and is discharged to the reaction container 812 on the reaction disk 811. In the reaction container, the immune reaction between the sample and the reagent proceeds, and the immune analysis item to be analyzed is measured.

After the sample collection by the first dispensing device for the above-mentioned specific sample container is completed, the same sample container is positioned at the sample collecting position b and programmed so that the sample collecting by the second dispensing device is executed. ing. Second in the reaction vessel 822 on the reaction disk 821
The specific sample dispensed by the pipette nozzle of the dispenser is subjected to a chemical reaction with the reagent in the reaction container, and biochemical analysis items are measured based on photometry of the formed reaction solution.

According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, both the biochemical analysis item and the immunological analysis item can be measured, but the analytical measurement value of the immunological analysis item is not affected by carryover between samples. When measuring biochemical and immunoassay items, apply a dispenser that uses a disposable nozzle tip and a dispenser that uses a pipette nozzle that is repeatedly used to a sample in the same sample container, and dispense with a disposable nozzle tip. By performing the injection operation prior to using the pipette nozzle, it is possible to avoid the carryover between samples caused by the pipette nozzle intervening for the analytical items that extremely dislike the carryover, and for the biochemical analytical items. Allows commonly used pipette nozzles to be used for sampling.

[0095]

According to the present invention, carryover between samples can be suitably avoided when measuring an analysis item that is strict against carryover and an analysis item that is relatively gentle. In addition, according to the present invention, when analyzing a specific sample in which both an analysis item with a high necessity to avoid carryover between samples and an analysis item with a low necessity to avoid carryover are different from each other. It is possible to process a specific sample so as not to affect the analysis result of each analysis item by the influence of carryover with the sample.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a schematic configuration of an embodiment according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view of an analysis unit for immune analysis items in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the dispensing device in the analysis unit of FIG.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of an analysis unit for biochemical analysis items in FIG.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a screen for setting a sample amount, a reagent dispensing amount, and a carryover avoidance level.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for selecting a designated analysis item for each sample.

7 is a diagram of an example screen for selecting a designated analysis item for the same sample as that in FIG.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of another embodiment according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

2 ... Sample rack, 5, 802 ... Sample container, 10 ... Rack supply device, 20 ... Standby unit, 30 ... Rack storage section, 50 ... Overall control section, 60 ... Rack transport line, 6
1, 62 ... Bypass line, 65 ... Return line, 70 ...
Analysis condition setting screen, 100, 200, 300, 810,
820 ... Analysis unit, 101, 201, 301 ... Analysis unit control unit, 102, 202, 302 ... Dispensing device,
104 ... Connection pipe, 105, 205, 812, 822 ... Reaction container, 125 ... Nozzle tip, 800 ... Sample container transfer device, 830 ... First dispensing device, 840 ... Second dispensing device.

Continuation of the front page (56) Reference JP-A-3-285175 (JP, A) JP-A-8-122337 (JP, A) JP-A-2-25755 (JP, A) JP-A-10-221342 (JP , A) JP 9-96643 (JP, A) JP 63-88461 (JP, A) JP 2-269971 (JP, A) JP 6-289032 (JP, A) JP 7-318559 (JP, A) JP-A-4-169851 (JP, A) JP-A-6-317598 (JP, A) (58) Fields investigated (Int.Cl. ⁷ , DB name) G01N 35/00 -35/10

Claims (6)

(57) [Claims] 1. A method for analyzing a biological sample, wherein a biological sample contained in a container is collected by using a pipette, transferred to another container, and the transferred biological sample is analyzed according to an analysis item, which avoids carryover. Analysis of biological samples with a high carry-over avoidance level is carried out prior to sample collection with a pipette used for high-level analysis items, prior to sampling with a pipette used for lower-level carry-over avoidance levels. After it is determined that re-measurement is not required for the analysis of the biological sample collected by the biological sample collection with the pipette used for the item,
A method for analyzing a biological sample, which comprises collecting a biological sample with a pipette used for an analysis item having a carry-over avoidance level lower than that. 2. A method for analyzing a biological sample, wherein a biological sample contained in a container is collected by using a pipette, transferred to another container, and the transferred biological sample is analyzed according to an analysis item. When collecting biological samples using multiple pipettes according to the carry-over avoidance level between biological samples and performing analysis with multiple analysis items, sample with a pipette used for analysis items with high carry-over avoidance level In a biological sample analysis method that is performed prior to sampling with a pipette used for an analysis item with a lower carryover avoidance level, a biological sample is collected with a pipette used for an analysis item with a higher carryover avoidance level. After it is determined that the re-measurement is not necessary in the analysis item of the biological sample,
A method for analyzing a biological sample, which comprises collecting a biological sample with a pipette used for an analysis item having a carry-over avoidance level lower than that. 3. A method for analyzing a biological sample, wherein a biological sample contained in a container is collected using a pipette, transferred to another container, and the transferred biological sample is analyzed according to an analysis item. The biological sample analysis items are divided in advance according to the carryover avoidance level between samples, and a pipette used for sample collection for analysis items with a high carryover avoidance level and an analysis item with a lower carryover avoidance level The pipette used for collecting the sample is different from that of the biological sample, and the sample collection for the analytical item with a high carryover avoidance level is performed before the biological sample is collected for the analytical item with a low carryover avoidance level. In the analysis method, the pipette used for the analysis item with a high carryover avoidance level. After it is determined that re-measurement is not necessary for the analysis of the biological sample collected by the biological sample collection in
A method for analyzing a biological sample, which comprises collecting a biological sample with a pipette used for an analysis item having a carry-over avoidance level lower than that. 4. A biological sample analysis method in which a sample rack having a sample is positioned in at least one of a plurality of analysis units, and a sample collected from the sample rack is analyzed by the analysis unit. The sample is processed in an analyzer that includes a first analyzer unit that has a dispenser that uses a nozzle tip and a second analyzer unit that has a dispenser that uses a pipette nozzle that is used repeatedly. And a specific sample rack having a specific sample to be analyzed in the second analysis unit is transferred to the first analysis unit prior to being transferred to the second analysis unit, and the first analysis unit. Collecting the above-mentioned specific sample with the above-mentioned specific sample sample collected with the above-mentioned first analysis unit. Hold the sample in the standby section before sending it to the second analysis unit, determine whether or not re-measurement by the first analysis unit is necessary for the specific sample, and When the measurement is not possible, the specific sample rack is transported from the standby section to the second analysis unit, and the specific sample is collected by the pipette nozzle. When the determination result indicates that re-measurement is required. For transporting the specific sample rack from the standby unit to the first analysis unit, collecting the specific sample in the first analysis unit for remeasurement, and for remeasurement. A biological sample, comprising: transporting the specific sample rack for which a sample has been collected to the second analysis unit, and collecting the specific sample with the pipette nozzle. Analytical methods. 5. The method for analyzing a biological sample according to claim 4, wherein the sample rack having a sample that does not need to be analyzed by the first analysis unit is the second analysis without stopping at the first analysis unit. A method for analyzing a biological sample, which is characterized in that the biological sample is transported to a unit. 6. A method for analyzing a biological sample, wherein an analysis apparatus having a plurality of analysis units having a sample collection function is used, and sample collection of analysis items suitable for each analysis unit can be performed. A first analysis section for receiving a sample collected using a nozzle tip that is replaced as the sample changes, and a first analysis section for receiving a sample collected using a pipette nozzle commonly used for different samples. When collecting a specific sample for analyzing a plurality of analysis items having different carryover avoidance levels, the carryover avoidance is performed before collecting the specific sample for the analysis item having a low carryover avoidance level. The analysis items of the specific sample having a high level are sampled in the first analysis unit, and the first analysis is performed. After the analysis item having a high carry-over avoidance level analyzed by is determined not to be remeasured, the analysis item having a low carry-over avoidance level of the specific sample is sampled to the second analyzing section. How to analyze the sample.