WO2024095939A1 - Tube, and nucleic acid extraction container - Google Patents

Tube, and nucleic acid extraction container Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2024095939A1
WO2024095939A1 PCT/JP2023/039008 JP2023039008W WO2024095939A1 WO 2024095939 A1 WO2024095939 A1 WO 2024095939A1 JP 2023039008 W JP2023039008 W JP 2023039008W WO 2024095939 A1 WO2024095939 A1 WO 2024095939A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
opening
nucleic acid
acid extraction
extraction container
main body
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/JP2023/039008
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French (fr)
Japanese (ja)
Inventor
遼祐 野津
圭亮 戸田
理文 八尾
Original Assignee
ニプロ株式会社
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Publication of WO2024095939A1 publication Critical patent/WO2024095939A1/en

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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L3/00—Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glassware; Droppers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B04—CENTRIFUGAL APPARATUS OR MACHINES FOR CARRYING-OUT PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES
    • B04B—CENTRIFUGES
    • B04B5/00—Other centrifuges
    • B04B5/02—Centrifuges consisting of a plurality of separate bowls rotating round an axis situated between the bowls
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
    • C12M—APPARATUS FOR ENZYMOLOGY OR MICROBIOLOGY; APPARATUS FOR CULTURING MICROORGANISMS FOR PRODUCING BIOMASS, FOR GROWING CELLS OR FOR OBTAINING FERMENTATION OR METABOLIC PRODUCTS, i.e. BIOREACTORS OR FERMENTERS
    • C12M1/00—Apparatus for enzymology or microbiology
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N1/00—Sampling; Preparing specimens for investigation
    • G01N1/02—Devices for withdrawing samples
    • G01N1/10—Devices for withdrawing samples in the liquid or fluent state

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a nucleic acid extraction container used for extracting nucleic acids.
  • a container for extracting nucleic acids from biological raw materials or products derived from biological raw materials is known.
  • the container has, for example, a resin tube and a column.
  • the tube is cylindrical with a bottom.
  • the column is fitted into the tube, and a carrier for capturing nucleic acids is placed inside the column (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).
  • the container may be handled by an operator wearing gloves in a safety cabinet or through an isolator.
  • the outer diameter of the container is about 1 cm, making it difficult for the operator to perform delicate operations such as picking up the container.
  • a centrifuge is used when extracting nucleic acid using the container, but when the operator picks up the container loaded in the centrifuge, there have been cases where they unintentionally pick up only the column, which separates from the tube.
  • the present invention was made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a nucleic acid extraction container that is easy to use.
  • the nucleic acid extraction container comprises a cylindrical body having a bottom and a first opening at one end, and a column inserted into the main body through the first opening of the main body, the main body having a tapered portion that protrudes radially outward from the first outer peripheral surface of the main body at the periphery of the first opening and whose outer diameter decreases from the bottom to the first opening in the axial direction of the main body, the column having a cylindrical portion inserted into the main body and having a second opening and a third opening at both ends, a nucleic acid capture member contained in the cylindrical portion, and a bulge portion that protrudes radially from the second outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion on the second opening side and abuts the periphery of the first opening.
  • the inclination of the pad of the operator's finger matches the inclination of the tapered portion. This makes it easier to hold the first open end side of the main body. This improves the operability of the nucleic acid extraction container.
  • Claim 2 is a nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 1, in which the outer diameter of the tapered portion at the periphery of the first opening is larger than the outer diameter of the bulging portion.
  • Claim 3 is a nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 1, in which the column further has a flange portion that protrudes radially from the second outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion at the periphery of the second opening of the cylindrical portion, and the bulge portion is located on the third opening side of the flange portion.
  • the above configuration allows the operator's fingers to hook onto the flange portion, preventing the nucleic acid extraction container from falling when held.
  • Claim 4 is a nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 3, in which the column further has a lid that seals the second opening.
  • Claim 5 is a nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 4, in which the lid is connected to the flange portion.
  • Claim 6 is a nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 3, in which the maximum outer diameter of the tapered portion is greater than the outer diameter of the flange portion.
  • the operator's fingers come into contact with the tapered portion before the flange portion. This prevents the body and column from separating when the flange portion is grasped first.
  • the tapered portion and flange portion can be aligned with the inclination of the pad of the finger, making it easier to grasp and hold the nucleic acid extraction container.
  • Claim 7 is a nucleic acid extraction container according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in which the length of the tapered portion along the axial direction is longer than the length of the bulging portion along the axial direction.
  • the operator's finger pads come into contact more widely with the tapered portion than with the bulging portion, making it easier to grasp the nucleic acid extraction container.
  • the present invention makes it easier to operate the container.
  • FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a nucleic acid extraction container.
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a nucleic acid extraction container.
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a nucleic acid extraction container placed in a centrifuge.
  • FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a tube of a nucleic acid extraction container.
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a tube.
  • FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of FIG.
  • FIG. 7 is a plan view showing a column of a nucleic acid extraction container.
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a column.
  • FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG.
  • the direction from the lid 240 of the nucleic acid extraction container 1 toward the main body 10 is referred to as the downward direction.
  • the direction from the main body 10 toward the lid 240 is referred to as the upward direction.
  • the upward and downward directions are collectively referred to as the vertical direction 2.
  • the vertical direction 2 is also referred to as the axial direction of the main body 10 or the axial direction of the column 20.
  • the nucleic acid extraction container 1 described in this embodiment is a container used for extracting nucleic acids from, for example, biological materials or specimens or samples derived from biological materials (hereinafter, simply referred to as biological materials, etc.).
  • the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is operated by a gloved operator in a safety cabinet (not shown) or an isolator (not shown).
  • the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is filled with a solution of biological materials dissolved in an extraction liquid. As shown in FIG. 3, the nucleic acid extraction container 1 filled with the solution is picked up by an operator and loaded into a centrifuge 100. After being centrifuged by the centrifuge 100, the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is picked up by the operator and removed from the centrifuge 100. Nucleic acids are separated from the solution in the nucleic acid extraction container 1 by centrifugation.
  • the nucleic acid extraction container 1 comprises a main body 10 and a column 20.
  • the nucleic acid extraction container 1 has the column 20 fitted into the main body 10.
  • the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is separated into the main body 10 and the column 20 by releasing the engagement between the main body 10 and the column 20.
  • the main body 10 has a tapered portion 120, a recessed portion 130, a protruding portion 140, and a textured portion 150.
  • the main body 10 is a container that stores the solution that flows out of the column 20.
  • the main body 10 is, for example, a molded product made of resin.
  • the main body 10 has a cylindrical shape with a bottom. Specifically, the main body 10 has a cylindrical shape with an internal space. The lower end of the main body 10 is closed as the bottom. The upper end of the main body 10 is an opening 114. The main body 10 has a roughly constant outer diameter from the opening 114 to the bottom, and the lower end is dome-shaped. The opening 114 is an example of a first opening.
  • the dimensions of the main body 10 are not particularly limited, but for example, the outer diameter of the outer circumferential surface 160 of the main body 10 is about 10 millimeters. The outer circumferential surface 160 is an example of a first outer circumferential surface.
  • the tapered portion 120 protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 160 of the main body 10 at the periphery of the opening 114 of the main body 10.
  • the tapered portion 120 is annular along the outer circumferential surface 160 of the main body 10.
  • the outer diameter of the tapered portion 120 decreases in the axial direction from the bottom toward the opening 114.
  • the minimum outer diameter of the tapered portion 120 is larger than the outer diameter of the main body 10.
  • the axial length of the tapered portion 120 is not particularly limited, but is, for example, about 4.5 millimeters.
  • the angle ⁇ at which the direction along the outer circumferential surface of the tapered portion 120 intersects with the radial direction of the tapered portion 120 is, for example, about 80.5 degrees.
  • the tapered portion 120 has an end face 170 located on the periphery of the opening 114.
  • the maximum outer diameter of the tapered portion 120 is larger than the outer diameter of the flange portion 230 described later.
  • the recesses 130 are located on the inner circumferential surface 180 of the main body 10.
  • the recesses 130 are recessed radially outward from the inner circumferential surface 180.
  • the recesses 130 extend downward from the opening 114 of the main body 10.
  • Multiple recesses 130 are located circumferentially spaced apart along the inner circumferential surface of the main body 10. The space between adjacent recesses 130 in the circumferential direction is flush with the inner circumferential surface 180.
  • the protrusion 140 is disposed along the inner circumferential surface of the main body 10.
  • the protrusion 140 is disposed below the recess 130.
  • the protrusion 140 protrudes radially inward from the main body 10.
  • the embossed portion 150 is located on the outer peripheral surface 160 of the main body 10.
  • the embossed portion 150 is an area on the outer peripheral surface of the main body 10 where embossing has been applied.
  • the embossed portion 150 has a rectangular outer diameter in a plan view.
  • the embossed portion 150 is, for example, positioned at positions 180 degrees apart in the circumferential direction on the outer peripheral surface 160 of the main body 10.
  • the column 20 includes a cylindrical portion 210, a bulging portion 220, a flange portion 230, a lid 240, and a ridge 250.
  • the column 20 is used to extract nucleic acids from a solution.
  • the column 20 is, for example, a molded product made of resin.
  • the cylindrical portion 210 has a cylindrical shape with both ends open.
  • the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 210 is smaller than the inner diameter of the main body 10.
  • the axial length of the cylindrical portion 210 is shorter than the axial length of the main body 10.
  • An opening 212 is located at the lower end of the cylindrical portion 210.
  • the opening 212 has an outer diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 210.
  • An opening 214 is located at the upper end of the cylindrical portion 210.
  • the opening 212 is an example of a third opening.
  • the opening 214 is an example of a second opening.
  • the flange portion 230 protrudes radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 260 at the periphery of the opening 214 of the cylindrical portion 210.
  • the flange portion 230 is disk-shaped.
  • the outer diameter of the flange portion 230 is larger than the outer diameter of the main body 10.
  • the outer peripheral surface 260 is an example of a second outer peripheral surface.
  • the bulging portion 220 bulges outward in the radial direction from the outer circumferential surface 260 on the opening 212 side of the flange portion 230 of the cylindrical portion 210.
  • the bulging portion 220 is annular along the outer circumferential surface 260.
  • the outer diameter of the bulging portion 220 is smaller than the minimum outer diameter of the tapered portion 120.
  • a downward-facing end face 270 is located between the bulging portion 220 and the outer circumferential surface 260. When the column 20 is inserted into the main body 10, the end face 270 abuts against the end face 170 of the tapered portion 120.
  • the axial length of the tapered portion 120 is longer than the axial length of the bulging portion 220.
  • the axial length of the bulging portion 220 is not particularly limited, but is, for example, about 4 millimeters.
  • the lid 240 closes the opening 214 of the column 20.
  • the lid 240 includes an extension portion 242, a lid body 244, and a flange portion 246.
  • the lid 240 is connected to the flange portion 230.
  • the extension portion 242 is a bendable flat plate.
  • the extension portion 242 extends radially outward from the flange portion 230. When the extension portion 242 is not bent, the main surface faces in the vertical direction.
  • the extension portion 242 has a thin-walled portion 243 near the center in the extension direction. The extension portion 242 is bent at the thin-walled portion 243.
  • the lid body 244 is disk-shaped.
  • the outer diameter of the lid body 244 is approximately the same as the outer diameter of the flange portion 230.
  • the lid body 244 and the flange portion 230 are connected by an extension portion 242.
  • the lid body 244 is fitted into the opening 214 of the cylindrical portion 210.
  • a cylindrical protrusion 245 is located on the main surface (upper surface) of the lid body 244 that faces the flange portion 230.
  • the outer diameter of the protrusion 245 is slightly larger than the inner diameter of the opening 214 of the cylindrical portion 210.
  • the protrusion 245 is press-fitted into the opening 214.
  • the flange portion 246 is a portion of the lid body 244 that extends radially outward. When the lid 240 closes the opening 214 (see Figures 1 and 2), the flange portion 246 protrudes radially outward beyond the flange portion 230.
  • the ridges 250 protrude from the outer peripheral surface 260 of the cylindrical portion 210.
  • Four ridges 250 are located on the outer peripheral surface 260 of the cylindrical portion 210 at intervals in the circumferential direction.
  • the ridges 250 extend in the vertical direction 2.
  • the upper ends of the ridges 250 are connected to the end face 270 of the bulging portion 220.
  • the length of the ridges 250 in the vertical direction 2 is longer than the length in the vertical direction 2 from the opening 114 of the main body 10 to the ridge 140.
  • the diameter of an imaginary circle connecting the protruding ends of the ridges 250 is larger than the inner diameter of the ridge 140 of the main body 10.
  • the nucleic acid capture member 30 is, for example, a filter made of a material that has a high affinity for nucleic acids.
  • An example of the nucleic acid capture member 30 is a nonwoven fabric made of glass fibers.
  • the nucleic acid capture member 30 is permeable to liquids.
  • the O-ring 40 has an outer diameter slightly larger than the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 210.
  • the O-ring 40 is fitted into the internal space of the cylindrical portion 210 above the nucleic acid capture member 30, so that the nucleic acid capture member 30 is sandwiched between the O-ring 40 and the opening 212 of the cylindrical portion 210.
  • the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is placed in a safety cabinet or isolator (hereinafter also simply referred to as a "safety cabinet, etc.") with the column 20 fitted to the main body 10 and the lid 240 not fitted to the opening 214 (see Figures 8 and 9, opening 214 open).
  • the biological raw material from which nucleic acid is to be extracted is dissolved in an extraction solution in advance and prepared on a clean bench, etc.
  • the centrifuge 100 is also placed in a safety cabinet, etc. In the safety cabinet, etc., the solution in which the biological raw material, etc. is dissolved in the extraction solution is injected into the inside of the cylindrical part 210 through the opening 214 by an operator using a pipette, etc.
  • the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is loaded into the centrifuge 100.
  • the centrifuge 100 has a number of insertion holes 101 that open into the upper surface of the rotor 102.
  • the multiple insertion holes 101 are arranged circumferentially about the axis of the rotor 102.
  • Each insertion hole 101 is inclined with respect to the axis so that the lower side is radially outward relative to the upper side. Therefore, when the rotor 102 rotates, centrifugal force acts downward.
  • the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is inserted into the insertion hole 101 of the centrifuge 100 from the lower end of the main body 10.
  • the nucleic acid extraction container 1 Since the outer diameter of the tapered portion 120 is larger than the inner diameter of the insertion hole 101, the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is loaded in such a state that the portion below the tapered portion 120 is inserted into the insertion hole 101, the lower end face of the tapered portion 120 abuts against the periphery of the insertion hole 101, and the upper portion including the tapered portion 120 is located outside the insertion hole 101.
  • the centrifuge 100 operates, the rotor 102 rotates, and the nucleic acid extraction container 1 also rotates. Due to the centrifugal force caused by the rotation, the solution inside the cylindrical portion 210 passes through the nucleic acid binding member 30 and flows out from the opening 212 of the cylindrical portion 210 into the inside of the main body 10.
  • the nucleic acid contained in the solution is captured by the nucleic acid binding member 30.
  • the upper portion of the nucleic acid extraction container 1 including the tapered portion 120 is picked up by the operator and pulled out from the insertion hole 101. As a result, the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is removed from the centrifuge 100.
  • the operator pinches the upper part of the nucleic acid extraction container 1, including the tapered portion 120, with his fingers. Since the tapered portion 120 tapers upward, the operator's finger pads come into close contact with the outer circumferential surface of the tapered portion 120. At this time, the operator's finger pads also come into contact with the bulging portion 220 of the main body 10. Since the minimum outer diameter of the tapered portion 120 is larger than the outer diameter of the bulging portion 220, the lower end of the bulging portion 220 does not protrude radially outward above the tapered portion 120. This makes it difficult for the operator's fingers to get caught on the lower end of the bulging portion 220. In addition, since the axial length of the tapered portion 120 is longer than the axial length of the bulging portion 220, the operator's finger pads come into contact more widely with the tapered portion 120 than with the bulging portion 220.
  • the nucleic acid extraction container 1 When the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is removed from the centrifuge 100, the main body 10 and the column 20 are separated.
  • the lid 240 is removed from the opening 214, allowing access to the nucleic acid captured by the nucleic acid capture member 30 through the opening 214. If necessary, reinjection of the extraction liquid and centrifugation may be repeated.
  • the inclination of the pad of the operator's finger matches the inclination of the tapered portion 120. It becomes easier to hold the end side of the opening 114 of the main body 10. This improves the operability of the container 1 for extraction of nucleic acids.
  • the operator's fingers can be placed on the flange portion 230, preventing the nucleic acid extraction container 1 from falling when it is being held.
  • the operator's fingers touch the tapered portion 120 before the flange portion 230. This prevents the main body 10 and the column 20 from separating when the flange portion 230 is first grasped.
  • the tapered portion 120 and the flange portion 230 can be aligned with the inclination of the pads of the fingers, making it easier to grasp the nucleic acid extraction container 1.
  • the inclination angle and length of the tapered portion 120 in the above embodiment are merely examples and are not limited thereto.
  • the inclination angle and length of the tapered portion 120 may be appropriately changed as long as the area of contact with the pad of the operator's finger is increased to improve the ease of picking up the nucleic acid extraction container 1.
  • the axial length of the tapered portion 120 may be greater than the sum of the axial lengths of the flange portion 230 and the bulge portion 220. This increases the area of the pad of the operator's finger that comes into close contact with the tapered portion 120.
  • the number of ridges 250 and the number of spaces between recesses 130 may be any number that is not a multiple. This prevents all of the ridges 250 from overlapping with all of the spaces between recesses 130 in the radial direction when the main body 10 is inserted into the column 20. Since at least a portion of the ridges 250 faces the recesses 130 in the radial direction, the ridges 250 overlap with the spaces between the recesses 130 in the circumferential direction, making it difficult for the column 20 to rotate within the main body 10. Since the relative position of the embossed portion 150 and the flange portion 246 is unlikely to change, sample mix-ups during extraction operations can be suppressed.
  • the lid 240 is connected to the flange portion 230, but this is not limited thereto.
  • the lid 240 may be connected to the main body 10.
  • the lid 240 may be connected to the tapered portion 120, for example. Since the lid 240 (protrusion 245) is unlikely to come off the opening 214 due to press-fitting, unintended separation of the main body 10 and the column 20 is suppressed.

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Abstract

[Problem] To facilitate operation of a nucleic acid extraction container. [Solution] The present invention is provided with: a closed-ended cylinder-shaped body 10 that has a first opening at one end; and a column 20 that is inserted into the body 10 via the first opening of the body 10. The body 10 has a tapered section 120 that protrudes radially outward from a first outer peripheral surface of the body 10 at the periphery of the first opening, the external diameter of the tapered section 120 decreasing from the bottom toward the first opening in an axial direction of the body 10. The column 20 comprises: a cylindrical section 210 that is inserted into the body 10 and has, at the two ends thereof, a second opening and a third opening; a nucleic acid trapping member 30 that is accommodated in the cylindrical section 210; and an expanded section 220 that protrudes radially from a second outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical section 210 on the second opening side and is in contact with the periphery of the first opening.

Description

チューブおよび核酸抽出容器Tubes and Nucleic Acid Extraction Vessels
　本発明は、核酸の抽出に供される核酸抽出容器に関する。 The present invention relates to a nucleic acid extraction container used for extracting nucleic acids.
　生体原料または生体原料由来の製品から核酸を抽出するための容器が知られている。容器は、例えば樹脂製のチューブとカラムとを有する。チューブは、有底円筒形状である。カラムは、チューブに嵌合され、内部に核酸を捕獲する担体が配置される（例えば、特許文献１および２参照）。 A container for extracting nucleic acids from biological raw materials or products derived from biological raw materials is known. The container has, for example, a resin tube and a column. The tube is cylindrical with a bottom. The column is fitted into the tube, and a carrier for capturing nucleic acids is placed inside the column (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).
特許第６７３７１７９号公報Patent No. 6737179 特許第５２０２７３２号公報Japanese Patent No. 5202732
　容器は、安全キャビネット等で手袋を着用した状態またはアイソレータを通してオペレータが操作することもある。容器の外径は１センチメートル程度なので、オペレータは、容器を摘む等の細かな操作がし難い。また、容器を用いて核酸を抽出する際には遠心分離機を使用するが、遠心分離機に装填された容器をオペレータが摘み上げるときに、意図せずにカラムのみを摘み上げ、カラムがチューブから分離することがあった。 The container may be handled by an operator wearing gloves in a safety cabinet or through an isolator. The outer diameter of the container is about 1 cm, making it difficult for the operator to perform delicate operations such as picking up the container. In addition, a centrifuge is used when extracting nucleic acid using the container, but when the operator picks up the container loaded in the centrifuge, there have been cases where they unintentionally pick up only the column, which separates from the tube.
　本発明は、前述された事情に鑑みてなされたものであり、その目的は、操作性に優れた核酸抽出容器を提供することにある。 The present invention was made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a nucleic acid extraction container that is easy to use.
（１）請求項１に係る核酸抽出容器は、一端に第１開口を有する有底円筒形状の本体と、
上記本体の上記第１開口を通じて上記本体に挿入されるカラムと、を備え、上記本体は、上記第１開口の周縁において上記本体の第１外周面から径方向外向きへ突出しており、上記本体の軸線方向において底から上記第１開口へ向かって外径が縮径するテーパ部を有しており、上記カラムは、上記本体に挿入され、両端に第２開口および第３開口を有する円筒部と、上記円筒部に収容された核酸捕捉部材と、上記第２開口側において上記円筒部の第２外周面から径方向へ突出しており、上記第１開口の周縁に当接する膨出部と、を有する。 (1) The nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 1 comprises a cylindrical body having a bottom and a first opening at one end,
and a column inserted into the main body through the first opening of the main body, the main body having a tapered portion that protrudes radially outward from the first outer peripheral surface of the main body at the periphery of the first opening and whose outer diameter decreases from the bottom to the first opening in the axial direction of the main body, the column having a cylindrical portion inserted into the main body and having a second opening and a third opening at both ends, a nucleic acid capture member contained in the cylindrical portion, and a bulge portion that protrudes radially from the second outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion on the second opening side and abuts the periphery of the first opening.
　上記構成によれば、オペレータの指の腹の傾斜がテーパ部の傾斜に適合する。本体の第１開口端側が持ちやすくなる。これにより、核酸抽出容器の操作性が向上する。 With the above configuration, the inclination of the pad of the operator's finger matches the inclination of the tapered portion. This makes it easier to hold the first open end side of the main body. This improves the operability of the nucleic acid extraction container.
（２）請求項２は、上記テーパ部の上記第１開口周縁における外径は、上記膨出部の外径よりも大きい請求項１に記載の核酸抽出容器である。 (2) Claim 2 is a nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 1, in which the outer diameter of the tapered portion at the periphery of the first opening is larger than the outer diameter of the bulging portion.
　上記構成によれば、核酸抽出容器を摘み持とうとするオペレータの腹の指がテーパ部に最初に当たりやすくなる。核酸抽出容器を摘み持ちやすくなる。 The above configuration makes it easier for the pads of the fingers of an operator trying to pick up the nucleic acid extraction container to come into contact with the tapered portion first. This makes it easier to pick up and hold the nucleic acid extraction container.
（３）請求項３は、上記カラムは、上記円筒部の上記第２開口の周縁において上記円筒部の第２外周面から径方向へ突出するフランジ部をさらに有し、上記膨出部は、上記フランジ部より第３開口側に位置する請求項１に記載の核酸抽出容器である。 (3) Claim 3 is a nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 1, in which the column further has a flange portion that protrudes radially from the second outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion at the periphery of the second opening of the cylindrical portion, and the bulge portion is located on the third opening side of the flange portion.
　上記構成によれば、フランジ部にオペレータの指が掛かるので、摘み持たれた核酸抽出容器が落下することを抑制できる。 The above configuration allows the operator's fingers to hook onto the flange portion, preventing the nucleic acid extraction container from falling when held.
（４）請求項４は、上記カラムは、上記第２開口を封止する蓋をさらに有する請求項３に記載の核酸抽出容器である。 (4) Claim 4 is a nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 3, in which the column further has a lid that seals the second opening.
（５）請求項５は、上記蓋は、上記フランジ部に接続される請求項４に記載の核酸抽出容器である。 (5) Claim 5 is a nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 4, in which the lid is connected to the flange portion.
　上記構成によれば、本体とカラムとを分離する際に第２開口から蓋を取り外す必要がない。核酸抽出を繰り返す際に蓋を取り外す回数が減るので、コンタミの発生が抑制される。 With the above configuration, there is no need to remove the lid from the second opening when separating the main body and the column. This reduces the number of times the lid needs to be removed when repeating nucleic acid extraction, thereby suppressing the occurrence of contamination.
（６）請求項６は、上記テーパ部の最大外径は、上記フランジ部の外径よりも大きい請求項３に記載の核酸抽出容器である。 (6) Claim 6 is a nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 3, in which the maximum outer diameter of the tapered portion is greater than the outer diameter of the flange portion.
　上記構成によれば、オペレータの指がフランジ部よりも先にテーパ部に当たる。フランジ部を先に摘み持つことによる本体とカラムとの分離を抑制できる。指の腹の傾斜にテーパ部およびフランジ部を合わせられるので、核酸抽出容器を摘み持ちやすくなる。 With the above configuration, the operator's fingers come into contact with the tapered portion before the flange portion. This prevents the body and column from separating when the flange portion is grasped first. The tapered portion and flange portion can be aligned with the inclination of the pad of the finger, making it easier to grasp and hold the nucleic acid extraction container.
（７）請求項７は、上記テーパ部の上記軸線方向に沿った長さは、上記膨出部の上記軸線方向に沿った長さよりも長い請求項１から６のいずれかに記載の核酸抽出容器である。 (7) Claim 7 is a nucleic acid extraction container according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in which the length of the tapered portion along the axial direction is longer than the length of the bulging portion along the axial direction.
　上記構成によれば、オペレータの指の腹が膨出部よりもテーパ部において広く接するので、核酸抽出容器を摘み持ちやすくなる。 With the above configuration, the operator's finger pads come into contact more widely with the tapered portion than with the bulging portion, making it easier to grasp the nucleic acid extraction container.
　本発明によれば、容器の操作が容易になる。 The present invention makes it easier to operate the container.
図１は、核酸抽出容器を示す平面図である。FIG. 1 is a plan view showing a nucleic acid extraction container. 図２は、核酸抽出容器を示す斜視図である。FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a nucleic acid extraction container. 図３は、遠心分離機に核酸抽出容器を配置した斜視図である。FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a nucleic acid extraction container placed in a centrifuge. 図４は、核酸抽出容器のチューブを示す平面図である。FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a tube of a nucleic acid extraction container. 図５は、チューブを示す斜視図である。FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a tube. 図６は、図４のＡ－Ａ線断面図である。FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of FIG. 図７は、核酸抽出容器のカラムを示す平面図である。FIG. 7 is a plan view showing a column of a nucleic acid extraction container. 図８は、カラムを示す斜視図である。FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a column. 図９は、図７のＢ－Ｂ線断面図である。FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG.
　以下、適宜図面を参照して本発明の実施形態について説明する。なお、以下に説明される実施形態は本発明の一例にすぎず、本発明の要旨を変更しない範囲で、本発明の実施形態を適宜変更できることは言うまでもない。 Below, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Note that the embodiment described below is merely one example of the present invention, and it goes without saying that the embodiment of the present invention can be modified as appropriate without departing from the gist of the present invention.
　以下では、図１および図２に示されるように、核酸抽出容器１の蓋２４０から本体１０に向かう方向を下方とする。本体１０から蓋２４０に向かう方向を上方とする。上方と下方とを合わせて上下方向２とする。上下方向２は、本体１０の軸線方向またはカラム２０の軸線方向とも記載される。 In the following, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the direction from the lid 240 of the nucleic acid extraction container 1 toward the main body 10 is referred to as the downward direction. The direction from the main body 10 toward the lid 240 is referred to as the upward direction. The upward and downward directions are collectively referred to as the vertical direction 2. The vertical direction 2 is also referred to as the axial direction of the main body 10 or the axial direction of the column 20.
　本実施形態において説明する核酸抽出容器１は、例えば、生体原料または生体原料に由来する検体や試料（以下、単に生体原料などともいう）からの核酸の抽出に供される容器である。核酸抽出容器１は、不図示の安全キャビネットまたは不図示のアイソレータにおいて、手袋をしたオペレータによって操作される。 The nucleic acid extraction container 1 described in this embodiment is a container used for extracting nucleic acids from, for example, biological materials or specimens or samples derived from biological materials (hereinafter, simply referred to as biological materials, etc.). The nucleic acid extraction container 1 is operated by a gloved operator in a safety cabinet (not shown) or an isolator (not shown).
　核酸抽出容器１には、抽出液に溶解した生体原料などの溶液が封入される。図３に示されるように、溶液が封入された核酸抽出容器１は、オペレータに摘み持たれて遠心分離機１００に装填される。核酸抽出容器１は、遠心分離機１００により遠心分離された後、オペレータに摘み持たれて遠心分離機１００から取り外される。遠心分離により、核酸抽出容器１において、溶液から核酸が分離される。 The nucleic acid extraction container 1 is filled with a solution of biological materials dissolved in an extraction liquid. As shown in FIG. 3, the nucleic acid extraction container 1 filled with the solution is picked up by an operator and loaded into a centrifuge 100. After being centrifuged by the centrifuge 100, the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is picked up by the operator and removed from the centrifuge 100. Nucleic acids are separated from the solution in the nucleic acid extraction container 1 by centrifugation.
　図１および図２に示されるように、核酸抽出容器１は、本体１０と、カラム２０と、を備える。核酸抽出容器１は、本体１０にカラム２０が嵌合されている。核酸抽出容器１は、本体１０とカラム２０との嵌合を解除することにより、本体１０とカラム２０とに分離される。 As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the nucleic acid extraction container 1 comprises a main body 10 and a column 20. The nucleic acid extraction container 1 has the column 20 fitted into the main body 10. The nucleic acid extraction container 1 is separated into the main body 10 and the column 20 by releasing the engagement between the main body 10 and the column 20.
　図４から図６に示されるように、本体１０は、テーパ部１２０と、凹部１３０と、凸部１４０と、シボ部１５０と、を備える。本体１０は、カラム２０から流出する溶液を貯留する容器である。本体１０は、例えば、樹脂の成型品である。 As shown in Figs. 4 to 6, the main body 10 has a tapered portion 120, a recessed portion 130, a protruding portion 140, and a textured portion 150. The main body 10 is a container that stores the solution that flows out of the column 20. The main body 10 is, for example, a molded product made of resin.
　本体１０は、有底円筒形状である。具体的には、本体１０は、内部空間を有する円筒形状である。本体１０の下端は、底として閉塞する。本体１０の上端は、開口１１４である。本体１０は、開口１１４から底へ向かって概ね同じ外径であり、下端がドーム形状である。開口１１４は、第１開口の一例である。本体１０の寸法は特に限定されないが、例えば、本体１０の外周面１６０における外径が１０ミリメートル程度である。外周面１６０は、第１外周面の一例である。 The main body 10 has a cylindrical shape with a bottom. Specifically, the main body 10 has a cylindrical shape with an internal space. The lower end of the main body 10 is closed as the bottom. The upper end of the main body 10 is an opening 114. The main body 10 has a roughly constant outer diameter from the opening 114 to the bottom, and the lower end is dome-shaped. The opening 114 is an example of a first opening. The dimensions of the main body 10 are not particularly limited, but for example, the outer diameter of the outer circumferential surface 160 of the main body 10 is about 10 millimeters. The outer circumferential surface 160 is an example of a first outer circumferential surface.
　テーパ部１２０は、本体１０の開口１１４の周縁において、本体１０の外周面１６０から径方向外向きへ突出する。テーパ部１２０は、本体１０の外周面１６０に沿った円環状である。テーパ部１２０の外径は、軸線方向において底から開口１１４へ向けて縮径する。テーパ部１２０の最小外径は、本体１０の外径よりも大きい。テーパ部１２０の軸線方向の長さは、特に限定されないが、例えば、４．５ミリメートル程度である。テーパ部１２０の外周面に沿った方向がテーパ部１２０の径方向と交差する角度θは、例えば８０．５度程度である。テーパ部１２０は、開口１１４の周縁に位置する端面１７０を有する。なお、テーパ部１２０の最大外径は、後述するフランジ部２３０の外径よりも大きい。 The tapered portion 120 protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 160 of the main body 10 at the periphery of the opening 114 of the main body 10. The tapered portion 120 is annular along the outer circumferential surface 160 of the main body 10. The outer diameter of the tapered portion 120 decreases in the axial direction from the bottom toward the opening 114. The minimum outer diameter of the tapered portion 120 is larger than the outer diameter of the main body 10. The axial length of the tapered portion 120 is not particularly limited, but is, for example, about 4.5 millimeters. The angle θ at which the direction along the outer circumferential surface of the tapered portion 120 intersects with the radial direction of the tapered portion 120 is, for example, about 80.5 degrees. The tapered portion 120 has an end face 170 located on the periphery of the opening 114. The maximum outer diameter of the tapered portion 120 is larger than the outer diameter of the flange portion 230 described later.
　凹部１３０は、本体１０の内周面１８０に位置する。凹部１３０は、内周面１８０から径方向外向きへ凹んでいる。凹部１３０は、本体１０の開口１１４から下方へ向かって延びている。凹部１３０は、本体１０の内周面に沿って周方向に間隔を空けて複数が位置する。周方向に隣り合う凹部１３０の間は、内周面１８０と同じ面である。 The recesses 130 are located on the inner circumferential surface 180 of the main body 10. The recesses 130 are recessed radially outward from the inner circumferential surface 180. The recesses 130 extend downward from the opening 114 of the main body 10. Multiple recesses 130 are located circumferentially spaced apart along the inner circumferential surface of the main body 10. The space between adjacent recesses 130 in the circumferential direction is flush with the inner circumferential surface 180.
　凸部１４０は、本体１０の内周面に沿って配置される。凸部１４０は、凹部１３０よりも下方に配置される。凸部１４０は、本体１０の径方向内向きへ突出する。 The protrusion 140 is disposed along the inner circumferential surface of the main body 10. The protrusion 140 is disposed below the recess 130. The protrusion 140 protrudes radially inward from the main body 10.
　シボ部１５０は、本体１０の外周面１６０に位置する。シボ部１５０は、本体１０の外周面にシボ加工が施された領域である。シボ部１５０は、平面視における外径が矩形である。シボ部１５０は、例えば、本体１０の外周面１６０において周方向に１８０度異なる位置に配置される。 The embossed portion 150 is located on the outer peripheral surface 160 of the main body 10. The embossed portion 150 is an area on the outer peripheral surface of the main body 10 where embossing has been applied. The embossed portion 150 has a rectangular outer diameter in a plan view. The embossed portion 150 is, for example, positioned at positions 180 degrees apart in the circumferential direction on the outer peripheral surface 160 of the main body 10.
　図７から図９に示されるように、カラム２０は、円筒部２１０と、膨出部２２０と、フランジ部２３０と、蓋２４０と、凸条２５０と、を備える。カラム２０は、溶液から核酸を抽出するものである。カラム２０は、例えば、樹脂の成型品である。 As shown in Figs. 7 to 9, the column 20 includes a cylindrical portion 210, a bulging portion 220, a flange portion 230, a lid 240, and a ridge 250. The column 20 is used to extract nucleic acids from a solution. The column 20 is, for example, a molded product made of resin.
　円筒部２１０は、両端が開口する円筒形状である。円筒部２１０の外径は、本体１０の内径よりも小さい。円筒部２１０の軸線方向の長さは、本体１０の軸線方向の長さよりも短い。円筒部２１０の下端に開口２１２が位置する。開口２１２は、円筒部２１０の外径よりも小さな外径である。円筒部２１０の上端に開口２１４が位置する。開口２１２は、第３開口の一例である。開口２１４は、第２開口の一例である。 The cylindrical portion 210 has a cylindrical shape with both ends open. The outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 210 is smaller than the inner diameter of the main body 10. The axial length of the cylindrical portion 210 is shorter than the axial length of the main body 10. An opening 212 is located at the lower end of the cylindrical portion 210. The opening 212 has an outer diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 210. An opening 214 is located at the upper end of the cylindrical portion 210. The opening 212 is an example of a third opening. The opening 214 is an example of a second opening.
　フランジ部２３０は、円筒部２１０の開口２１４の周縁において、外周面２６０から径方向外向きへ突出する。フランジ部２３０は、円盤形状である。フランジ部２３０の外径は、本体１０の外径よりも大きい。外周面２６０は、第２外周面の一例である。 The flange portion 230 protrudes radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 260 at the periphery of the opening 214 of the cylindrical portion 210. The flange portion 230 is disk-shaped. The outer diameter of the flange portion 230 is larger than the outer diameter of the main body 10. The outer peripheral surface 260 is an example of a second outer peripheral surface.
　膨出部２２０は、円筒部２１０のフランジ部２３０より開口２１２側において、外周面２６０から径方向外向きへ膨出する。膨出部２２０は、外周面２６０に沿った環状である。膨出部２２０の外径は、テーパ部１２０の最小外径よりも小さい。膨出部２２０と外周面２６０との間には、下方を向く端面２７０が位置する。カラム２０が本体１０に挿入されると、端面２７０が、テーパ部１２０の端面１７０に当接する。テーパ部１２０の軸線方向の長さは、膨出部２２０の軸線方向の長さよりも長い。膨出部２２０の軸線方向の長さは特に限定されないが、例えば、４ミリメートル程度である。 The bulging portion 220 bulges outward in the radial direction from the outer circumferential surface 260 on the opening 212 side of the flange portion 230 of the cylindrical portion 210. The bulging portion 220 is annular along the outer circumferential surface 260. The outer diameter of the bulging portion 220 is smaller than the minimum outer diameter of the tapered portion 120. A downward-facing end face 270 is located between the bulging portion 220 and the outer circumferential surface 260. When the column 20 is inserted into the main body 10, the end face 270 abuts against the end face 170 of the tapered portion 120. The axial length of the tapered portion 120 is longer than the axial length of the bulging portion 220. The axial length of the bulging portion 220 is not particularly limited, but is, for example, about 4 millimeters.
　蓋２４０は、カラム２０の開口２１４を閉塞する。蓋２４０は、延出部２４２と、蓋本体２４４と、鍔部２４６と、を備える。蓋２４０は、フランジ部２３０に接続される。 The lid 240 closes the opening 214 of the column 20. The lid 240 includes an extension portion 242, a lid body 244, and a flange portion 246. The lid 240 is connected to the flange portion 230.
　延出部２４２は、折れ曲げ可能な平板である。延出部２４２は、フランジ部２３０から径方向外向きへ延出する。延出部２４２が折れ曲がらない状態において、主面が上下方向を向く。延出部２４２は、延出方向の中央付近に薄肉部２４３を有する。薄肉部２４３において延出部２４２が折り曲げられる。 The extension portion 242 is a bendable flat plate. The extension portion 242 extends radially outward from the flange portion 230. When the extension portion 242 is not bent, the main surface faces in the vertical direction. The extension portion 242 has a thin-walled portion 243 near the center in the extension direction. The extension portion 242 is bent at the thin-walled portion 243.
　蓋本体２４４は、円盤形状である。蓋本体２４４の外径は、フランジ部２３０の外径と同程度である。蓋本体２４４とフランジ部２３０とは、延出部２４２によって接続されている。蓋本体２４４は、円筒部２１０の開口２１４に嵌合される。蓋本体２４４においてフランジ部２３０と対向する主面（上面）には、円筒形状の突起２４５が位置する。突起２４５の外径は、円筒部２１０の開口２１４の内径よりも若干大きい。突起２４５は、開口２１４に圧入される。 The lid body 244 is disk-shaped. The outer diameter of the lid body 244 is approximately the same as the outer diameter of the flange portion 230. The lid body 244 and the flange portion 230 are connected by an extension portion 242. The lid body 244 is fitted into the opening 214 of the cylindrical portion 210. A cylindrical protrusion 245 is located on the main surface (upper surface) of the lid body 244 that faces the flange portion 230. The outer diameter of the protrusion 245 is slightly larger than the inner diameter of the opening 214 of the cylindrical portion 210. The protrusion 245 is press-fitted into the opening 214.
　鍔部２４６は、蓋本体２４４の一部が径方向外向きへ拡がったものである。蓋２４０が開口２１４を閉塞した状態（図１および図２参照）において、鍔部２４６は、フランジ部２３０よりも径方向外向きへ突出する。 The flange portion 246 is a portion of the lid body 244 that extends radially outward. When the lid 240 closes the opening 214 (see Figures 1 and 2), the flange portion 246 protrudes radially outward beyond the flange portion 230.
　凸条２５０は、円筒部２１０の外周面２６０から突出する。凸条２５０は、円筒部２１０の外周面２６０に周方向へ間隔を空けて４つが位置する。凸条２５０は、上下方向２に延びる。凸条２５０の上端は、膨出部２２０の端面２７０と接続している。凸条２５０の上下方向２に沿った長さは、本体１０の開口１１４から凸部１４０までの上下方向２に沿った長さよりも長い。凸条２５０の突出端を結ぶ仮想円の径は、本体１０の凸部１４０の内径よりも大きい。これにより、本体１０にカラム２０が挿入されると、凸部１４０の内周面に凸条２５０が圧接する。 The ridges 250 protrude from the outer peripheral surface 260 of the cylindrical portion 210. Four ridges 250 are located on the outer peripheral surface 260 of the cylindrical portion 210 at intervals in the circumferential direction. The ridges 250 extend in the vertical direction 2. The upper ends of the ridges 250 are connected to the end face 270 of the bulging portion 220. The length of the ridges 250 in the vertical direction 2 is longer than the length in the vertical direction 2 from the opening 114 of the main body 10 to the ridge 140. The diameter of an imaginary circle connecting the protruding ends of the ridges 250 is larger than the inner diameter of the ridge 140 of the main body 10. As a result, when the column 20 is inserted into the main body 10, the ridges 250 are pressed against the inner peripheral surface of the ridge 140.
　核酸捕捉部材３０は、例えば、核酸と親和性の高い素材からなるフィルタである。核酸捕捉部材３０としては、例えば、ガラス繊維の不織布が挙げられる。核酸捕捉部材３０は、液体を透過する。 The nucleic acid capture member 30 is, for example, a filter made of a material that has a high affinity for nucleic acids. An example of the nucleic acid capture member 30 is a nonwoven fabric made of glass fibers. The nucleic acid capture member 30 is permeable to liquids.
　Ｏリング４０は、円筒部２１０の内径より若干大きな外径である。Ｏリング４０が、核酸捕捉部材３０よりも上方において円筒部２１０の内部空間に嵌め込まれることにより、Ｏリング４０と円筒部２１０の開口２１２との間に核酸捕捉部材３０が挟み込まれる。 The O-ring 40 has an outer diameter slightly larger than the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 210. The O-ring 40 is fitted into the internal space of the cylindrical portion 210 above the nucleic acid capture member 30, so that the nucleic acid capture member 30 is sandwiched between the O-ring 40 and the opening 212 of the cylindrical portion 210.
　以下、核酸抽出容器１の使用方法が説明される。
　核酸抽出容器１は、本体１０にカラム２０が嵌合され、蓋２４０が開口２１４に嵌合されていない状態（図８および図９参照、開口２１４が開放されている状態）で、安全キャビネットまたはアイソレータ（以下、単に「安全キャビネットなど」とも称される。）内に配置される。核酸を抽出すべき生体原料などは、予め抽出液に溶解されてクリーンベンチなどに準備される。遠心分離機１００も、安全キャビネットなどに位置される。安全キャビネットなどにおいて、生体原料などが抽出液に溶解された溶液は、オペレータによって、ピペットなどを用いて、開口２１４を通じて円筒部２１０の内部に注入される。 A method for using the nucleic acid extraction container 1 will now be described.
The nucleic acid extraction container 1 is placed in a safety cabinet or isolator (hereinafter also simply referred to as a "safety cabinet, etc.") with the column 20 fitted to the main body 10 and the lid 240 not fitted to the opening 214 (see Figures 8 and 9, opening 214 open). The biological raw material from which nucleic acid is to be extracted is dissolved in an extraction solution in advance and prepared on a clean bench, etc. The centrifuge 100 is also placed in a safety cabinet, etc. In the safety cabinet, etc., the solution in which the biological raw material, etc. is dissolved in the extraction solution is injected into the inside of the cylindrical part 210 through the opening 214 by an operator using a pipette, etc.
　溶液が注入された後、オペレータによって、開口２１４を蓋２４０によって塞ぐ（図１および図２参照）。図３に示されるように、核酸抽出容器１は、遠心分離機１００に装填される。遠心分離機１００は、回転体１０２の上面に開口する複数の挿入孔１０１を有する。複数の挿入孔１０１は、回転体１０２の軸に対して円周に並んでいる。各挿入孔１０１は、上側より下側が径方向外側となるように、軸に対して傾斜している。したがって、回転体１０２が回転すると、遠心力が下側へ向かって作用する。核酸抽出容器１は、遠心分離機１００の挿入孔１０１に本体１０の下端から挿入される。テーパ部１２０の外径は、挿入孔１０１の内径よりも大きいので、核酸抽出容器１は、テーパ部１２０より下側の部分が挿入孔１０１内に挿入され、テーパ部１２０の下端面が挿入孔１０１の周縁に当接して、テーパ部１２０を含む上側の部分が挿入孔１０１の外部に位置する状態で装填される。遠心分離機１００が動作すると、回転体１０２が回転して、核酸抽出容器１も回転する。回転による遠心力が作用して、円筒部２１０の内部の溶液は、核酸捕捉部材３０を通って円筒部２１０の開口２１２から本体１０の内部へと流出する。溶液に含まれる核酸は、核酸捕捉部材３０に捕捉される。遠心分離機１００の動作が終了すると、核酸抽出容器１は、テーパ部１２０を含む上側の部分がオペレータによって摘み持たれて、挿入孔１０１から引き抜かれる。これにより、核酸抽出容器１は、遠心分離機１００から取り外される。 After the solution has been injected, the operator closes the opening 214 with the lid 240 (see Figures 1 and 2). As shown in Figure 3, the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is loaded into the centrifuge 100. The centrifuge 100 has a number of insertion holes 101 that open into the upper surface of the rotor 102. The multiple insertion holes 101 are arranged circumferentially about the axis of the rotor 102. Each insertion hole 101 is inclined with respect to the axis so that the lower side is radially outward relative to the upper side. Therefore, when the rotor 102 rotates, centrifugal force acts downward. The nucleic acid extraction container 1 is inserted into the insertion hole 101 of the centrifuge 100 from the lower end of the main body 10. Since the outer diameter of the tapered portion 120 is larger than the inner diameter of the insertion hole 101, the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is loaded in such a state that the portion below the tapered portion 120 is inserted into the insertion hole 101, the lower end face of the tapered portion 120 abuts against the periphery of the insertion hole 101, and the upper portion including the tapered portion 120 is located outside the insertion hole 101. When the centrifuge 100 operates, the rotor 102 rotates, and the nucleic acid extraction container 1 also rotates. Due to the centrifugal force caused by the rotation, the solution inside the cylindrical portion 210 passes through the nucleic acid binding member 30 and flows out from the opening 212 of the cylindrical portion 210 into the inside of the main body 10. The nucleic acid contained in the solution is captured by the nucleic acid binding member 30. When the operation of the centrifuge 100 is finished, the upper portion of the nucleic acid extraction container 1 including the tapered portion 120 is picked up by the operator and pulled out from the insertion hole 101. As a result, the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is removed from the centrifuge 100.
　核酸抽出容器１の取り外しにおいて、オペレータは、核酸抽出容器１のテーパ部１２０を含む上側の部分を指で摘む。テーパ部１２０が上方に向かって縮径しているので、オペレータの指の腹は、テーパ部１２０の外周面に沿って密接する。このとき、オペレータの指の腹は、本体１０の膨出部２２０にも接する。テーパ部１２０の最小外径は、膨出部２２０の外径よりも大きいので、テーパ部１２０の上方において膨出部２２０の下端が径方向外向きへ突出しない。これにより、膨出部２２０の下端に、オペレータの指が係りにくい。また、テーパ部１２０の軸線方向の長さは、膨出部２２０の軸線方向の長さよりも長いので、オペレータの指の腹は、膨出部２２０よりもテーパ部１２０において広く接する。 When removing the nucleic acid extraction container 1, the operator pinches the upper part of the nucleic acid extraction container 1, including the tapered portion 120, with his fingers. Since the tapered portion 120 tapers upward, the operator's finger pads come into close contact with the outer circumferential surface of the tapered portion 120. At this time, the operator's finger pads also come into contact with the bulging portion 220 of the main body 10. Since the minimum outer diameter of the tapered portion 120 is larger than the outer diameter of the bulging portion 220, the lower end of the bulging portion 220 does not protrude radially outward above the tapered portion 120. This makes it difficult for the operator's fingers to get caught on the lower end of the bulging portion 220. In addition, since the axial length of the tapered portion 120 is longer than the axial length of the bulging portion 220, the operator's finger pads come into contact more widely with the tapered portion 120 than with the bulging portion 220.
　遠心分離機１００から取り外された核酸抽出容器１は、本体１０とカラム２０とが分離される。蓋２４０が開口２１４から外されることにより、開口２１４から核酸捕捉部材３０に捕捉された核酸へアクセスできる。また、必要に応じて、抽出液の再注入と遠心分離とが繰り返し行われてもよい。 When the nucleic acid extraction container 1 is removed from the centrifuge 100, the main body 10 and the column 20 are separated. The lid 240 is removed from the opening 214, allowing access to the nucleic acid captured by the nucleic acid capture member 30 through the opening 214. If necessary, reinjection of the extraction liquid and centrifugation may be repeated.
［本実施形態の作用効果］
　上記構成によれば、オペレータの指の腹の傾斜がテーパ部１２０の傾斜に適合する。本体１０の開口１１４端側が持ちやすくなる。これにより、核酸抽出容器１の操作性が向上する。 [Effects of this embodiment]
According to the above-mentioned configuration, the inclination of the pad of the operator's finger matches the inclination of the tapered portion 120. It becomes easier to hold the end side of the opening 114 of the main body 10. This improves the operability of the container 1 for extraction of nucleic acids.
　核酸抽出容器１を摘み持とうとするオペレータの腹の指がテーパ部１２０に最初に当たりやすくなる。核酸抽出容器１を摘み持ちやすくなる。 When an operator tries to pick up the nucleic acid extraction container 1, the pads of the fingers are likely to come into contact with the tapered portion 120 first. This makes it easier to pick up and hold the nucleic acid extraction container 1.
　フランジ部２３０にオペレータの指が掛かるので、摘み持たれた核酸抽出容器１が落下することを抑制できる。 The operator's fingers can be placed on the flange portion 230, preventing the nucleic acid extraction container 1 from falling when it is being held.
　オペレータの指がフランジ部２３０よりも先にテーパ部１２０に当たる。フランジ部２３０を先に摘み持つことによる本体１０とカラム２０との分離を抑制できる。指の腹の傾斜にテーパ部１２０およびフランジ部２３０を合わせられるので、核酸抽出容器１を摘み持ちやすくなる。 The operator's fingers touch the tapered portion 120 before the flange portion 230. This prevents the main body 10 and the column 20 from separating when the flange portion 230 is first grasped. The tapered portion 120 and the flange portion 230 can be aligned with the inclination of the pads of the fingers, making it easier to grasp the nucleic acid extraction container 1.
［変形例］
　上記実施形態におけるテーパ部１２０の傾斜角度および長さは一例であり、これに制限されない。テーパ部１２０の傾斜角度および長さは、オペレータの指の腹が接触する面積を増やして核酸抽出容器１の摘みやすさが向上する限り、適宜変更されてよい。例えば、テーパ部１２０の軸線方向の長さは、フランジ部２３０および膨出部２２０の軸線方向の長さの和よりも大きくてよい。これにより、テーパ部１２０に密接するオペレータの指の腹の面積が増える。 [Modification]
The inclination angle and length of the tapered portion 120 in the above embodiment are merely examples and are not limited thereto. The inclination angle and length of the tapered portion 120 may be appropriately changed as long as the area of contact with the pad of the operator's finger is increased to improve the ease of picking up the nucleic acid extraction container 1. For example, the axial length of the tapered portion 120 may be greater than the sum of the axial lengths of the flange portion 230 and the bulge portion 220. This increases the area of the pad of the operator's finger that comes into close contact with the tapered portion 120.
　また、上記実施形態において、凸条２５０の数と、凹部１３０の間の数とは、倍数にならない数であればよい。これにより、本体１０のカラム２０への挿入時に、全ての凸条２５０と全ての凹部１３０の間とが径方向において重なることが無くなる。凸条２５０の少なくとも一部が凹部１３０と径方向において対向するので、凸条２５０が凹部１３０の間と周方向で重なって、カラム２０が本体１０内で回転し難くなる。シボ部１５０と、鍔部２４６との相対位置が変化し難くなるので、抽出作業におけるサンプルの取り違えなどを抑制できる。 In addition, in the above embodiment, the number of ridges 250 and the number of spaces between recesses 130 may be any number that is not a multiple. This prevents all of the ridges 250 from overlapping with all of the spaces between recesses 130 in the radial direction when the main body 10 is inserted into the column 20. Since at least a portion of the ridges 250 faces the recesses 130 in the radial direction, the ridges 250 overlap with the spaces between the recesses 130 in the circumferential direction, making it difficult for the column 20 to rotate within the main body 10. Since the relative position of the embossed portion 150 and the flange portion 246 is unlikely to change, sample mix-ups during extraction operations can be suppressed.
　また、上記実施形態において、蓋２４０がフランジ部２３０に接続されるとしたがこれに制限されない。蓋２４０は、本体１０に接続されていてもよい。蓋２４０は、例えば、テーパ部１２０に接続されてもよい。蓋２４０（突起２４５）が圧入により開口２１４から外れ難いので、本体１０とカラム２０との意図しない分離が抑制される。 In addition, in the above embodiment, the lid 240 is connected to the flange portion 230, but this is not limited thereto. The lid 240 may be connected to the main body 10. The lid 240 may be connected to the tapered portion 120, for example. Since the lid 240 (protrusion 245) is unlikely to come off the opening 214 due to press-fitting, unintended separation of the main body 10 and the column 20 is suppressed.
１　核酸抽出容器
１０　本体
２０　カラム
３０　核酸捕捉部材
４０　Ｏリング
１２０　テーパ部
２１０　円筒部
１１４，２１２，２１４　開口
２２０　膨出部
２３０　フランジ部
２４０　蓋 1 Nucleic acid extraction container 10 Body 20 Column 30 Nucleic acid binding member 40 O-ring 120 Tapered portion 210 Cylindrical portion 114, 212, 214 Opening 220 Bulging portion 230 Flange portion 240 Lid

Claims (7)

  1. 　一端に第１開口を有する有底円筒形状の本体と、
    　上記本体の上記第１開口を通じて上記本体に挿入されるカラムと、を備え、
    　上記本体は、上記第１開口の周縁において上記本体の第１外周面から径方向外向きへ突出しており、上記本体の軸線方向において底から上記第１開口へ向かって外径が縮径するテーパ部を有しており、
    　上記カラムは、
    　上記本体に挿入され、両端に第２開口および第３開口を有する円筒部と、
    　上記円筒部に収容された核酸捕捉部材と、
    　上記第２開口側において上記円筒部の第２外周面から径方向へ突出しており、上記第１開口の周縁に当接する膨出部と、を有する核酸抽出容器。     A cylindrical body having a bottom and a first opening at one end;
    a column inserted into the body through the first opening of the body;
    The main body has a tapered portion that protrudes radially outward from a first outer circumferential surface of the main body at a periphery of the first opening and whose outer diameter decreases from a bottom toward the first opening in an axial direction of the main body,
    The above column is
    a cylindrical portion inserted into the body and having a second opening and a third opening at both ends;
    A nucleic acid binding member housed in the cylindrical portion;
    a bulge portion that protrudes radially from the second outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion on the second opening side and abuts against the periphery of the first opening.
  2. 　上記テーパ部の上記第１開口周縁における外径は、上記膨出部の外径よりも大きい請求項１に記載の核酸抽出容器。 The nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 1, wherein the outer diameter of the tapered portion at the periphery of the first opening is greater than the outer diameter of the bulging portion.
  3. 　上記カラムは、上記円筒部の上記第２開口の周縁において上記円筒部の第２外周面から径方向へ突出するフランジ部をさらに有し、
    　上記膨出部は、上記フランジ部より第３開口側に位置する請求項１に記載の核酸抽出容器。     The column further includes a flange portion protruding radially from a second outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion at a periphery of the second opening of the cylindrical portion,
    2. The nucleic acid extraction vessel according to claim 1, wherein the bulge is located closer to the third opening than the flange.
  4. 　上記カラムは、上記第２開口を封止する蓋をさらに有する請求項３に記載の核酸抽出容器。 The nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 3, wherein the column further has a lid that seals the second opening.
  5. 　上記蓋は、上記フランジ部に接続される請求項４に記載の核酸抽出容器。 The nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 4, wherein the lid is connected to the flange portion.
  6. 　上記テーパ部の最大外径は、上記フランジ部の外径よりも大きい請求項３に記載の核酸抽出容器。 The nucleic acid extraction container according to claim 3, wherein the maximum outer diameter of the tapered portion is greater than the outer diameter of the flange portion.
  7. 　上記テーパ部の上記軸線方向に沿った長さは、上記膨出部の上記軸線方向に沿った長さよりも長い請求項１から６のいずれかに記載の核酸抽出容器。 The nucleic acid extraction container according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the length of the tapered portion along the axial direction is longer than the length of the bulging portion along the axial direction.
PCT/JP2023/039008 2022-10-31 2023-10-30 Tube, and nucleic acid extraction container WO2024095939A1 (en)

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JP2022-174116 2022-10-31

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Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2007529210A (en) * 2004-03-18 2007-10-25 エフ．ホフマン−ラ　ロシュ　アーゲー Nucleic acid purification method and apparatus
JP2013537621A (en) * 2010-07-14 2013-10-03 キアゲン ゲーエムベーハー New liquid processing device
JP2014517691A (en) * 2011-05-12 2014-07-24 エクザクト サイエンシーズ コーポレイション Nucleic acid isolation
US20200131503A1 (en) * 2017-06-30 2020-04-30 Catchgene Co., Ltd. Fixed tube of nucleic acid extraction component, and nucleic acid extraction component

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2007529210A (en) * 2004-03-18 2007-10-25 エフ．ホフマン−ラ　ロシュ　アーゲー Nucleic acid purification method and apparatus
JP2013537621A (en) * 2010-07-14 2013-10-03 キアゲン ゲーエムベーハー New liquid processing device
JP2014517691A (en) * 2011-05-12 2014-07-24 エクザクト サイエンシーズ コーポレイション Nucleic acid isolation
US20200131503A1 (en) * 2017-06-30 2020-04-30 Catchgene Co., Ltd. Fixed tube of nucleic acid extraction component, and nucleic acid extraction component

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