Abstract:
The invention herein provides improved sample injection systems and related methods to create microfluidic devices with symmetrical channel configurations that can produce relatively large sample volumes. An embodiment of the invention provides microfluidic structures with different geometries that are symmetrical from the perspective of a sample load channel and a sample waste channel, which essentially eliminates issues of time offset and other problems commonly associated with twin-T sample formation techniques. A split-injection approach and related methods of sample plug formation are therefore provided.
Abstract:
Methods and devices for the interfacing of microchips to various types of modules are disclosed. The technology disclosed can be used as sample preparation and analysis systems for various applications, such as DNA sequencing and genotyping, proteomics, pathogen detection, diagnostics and biodefense.
Abstract:
A system for outputting electropherograms includes a capillary containing a separation medium and comprising an inlet end, a distal end, and an interrogation region between the inlet and distal ends, the inlet end of the capillary configured to receive a plurality of differing samples containing DNA fragments having a plurality of different sizes; a power source configured to selectively apply forward and reverse polarity voltages between the inlet end and the distal end of the capillary; a detector configured to detect signal associated with DNA fragments moving through the interrogation region of the capillary; and a processor communicatively coupled to the detector and configured to process signal detected by the detector and output electropherograms during an electrophoresis run, the electropherograms corresponding to a plurality of differing samples successively introduced to the capillary from the inlet and traveling through the capillary at the same time.
Abstract:
A command center includes at least one network communications interface configured for two-way communications with a plurality of sites remote from the command center and at least one display screen and user interface. Each of the plurality of sites includes at least one forensic field test device configured to identify individuals using DNA samples from the individuals. The display screen and user interface are configured to depict aspects of forensic field test devices of the plurality of sites, wherein the aspects include a site identifier for each of the forensic field test devices and one or more additional aspects.
Abstract:
Provided herein is an electrophoresis separation medium comprising: (a) a non-crosslinked or sparsely cross-linked polymer or copolymer; (b) one or more denaturant compounds, in an amount sufficient to inhibit re-naturation of single stranded polynucleotides; (c) an aqueous solvent; (d) optionally, a wall-coating material suited to inhibition of electroosmotic flow; and (e) optionally, an organic water miscible solvent such as DMSO or acetonitrile, wherein the electrophoresis separation medium exhibits functional stability for at least seven days at 23° C. Also provided herein are sieving compositions, including polymer-based sieving compositions, for molecular sieving as well as related kits, devices and methods of use. Such compositions can be useful for separation of biomolecules such as nucleic acids, proteins, glycoproteins and glycans.
Abstract:
A system for performing capillary electrophoresis of multiple samples comprises a capillary containing a separation medium and having inlet and distal ends and an interrogation region; a power source configured to apply voltages between inlet and distal ends; and logic to cause execution of: applying a first substantially constant forward polarity electrophoresis voltage to the capillary; before all of the first DNA fragments have passed the interrogation region, applying a reverse polarity voltage pulse to the capillary, thereby transporting at least some of the first DNA fragments in the capillary toward the capillary inlet; introducing a second sample to the capillary inlet, the second sample comprising second DNA fragments having a plurality of different sizes; and applying a second substantially constant forward polarity electrophoresis voltage to the capillary to simultaneously perform electrophoresis on the second DNA fragments and the first DNA fragments.
Abstract:
Performing sample quantitation and sample amplification may be performed in a sample cartridge or sample cartridges. Sample quantitation using qPCR may be performed during STR PCR on the sample. Samples need not be normalized prior to performing STR PCR. In certain embodiments, qPCR and STR PCR are performed on the same cartridge, optionally at the same time (or in real-time, or overlapping in time) and optionally using some or all of the same PCR apparatus. In other embodiments, qPCR and STR PCR are performed on different cartridges. Quantitation of the STR PCR sample may be performed without substantially delaying the STR PCR process.
Abstract:
This disclosure provides an integrated and automated sample-to-answer system that, starting from a sample comprising biological material, generates a genetic profile in less than two hours. In certain embodiments, the biological material is DNA and the genetic profile involves determining alleles at one or a plurality of loci (e.g., genetic loci) of a subject, for example, an STR (short tandem repeat) profile, for example as used in the CODIS system. The system can perform several operations, including (a) extraction and isolation of nucleic acid; (b) amplification of nucleotide sequences at selected loci (e.g., genetic loci); and (c) detection and analysis of amplification product. These operations can be carried out in a system that comprises several integrated modules, including an analyte preparation module; a detection and analysis module and a control module.
Abstract:
Provided herein is a fluidic cartridge having a body comprising a malleable material and a layer comprising a deformable material bonded to a surface of the body that seals one or more fluidic channels that communicate with one or more valve bodies formed in a surface of the body. The valve can be closed by applying pressure to the deformable material sufficient to crush and close off a fluidic channel in the body. Also provided are a cartridge interface configured to engage the cartridge. Also provided is a system including a cartridge interface and methods of using the cartridge and system.
Abstract:
The present disclosure provides systems and methods for sample preparation, processing and analysis. Also provided in the present disclosure is a fully-integrated electrophoresis cartridge which has a small footprint and configured to removably engage with the system.