Abstract:
Biological sample collection kits are devised with physical features to enable a high performance collection system which delivers preprocessed biological matter via conventional shipping means to a testing laboratories. In particular, users deposit biological matter such as saliva or blood into a receiving vessel. By sealing the container, the user causes release of a premixed solution containing preservatives and optionally lysis reagents. In addition, a purification agent is arranged to bind to target molecules and facilitate their removal from solution. These time consuming processes occur while the sample is in transit to the testing facility such that when it arrives, it is in a preconditioned state immediately ready for execution of washing steps. Thus, the high performance containers taught herein are useful for collection biological samples and performing initial process steps on received matter - steps which are largely effected during the shipping stage of the transfer process.
Abstract:
Dual mode genetics testing systems are devised about a single element testing platform. A microfluidic network and system of interconnected receiving cells and reaction vessels supports at the same time genotyping and copy number analysis where the platform may be subject to a common thermal cycle schedule to cause the proper reactions (DNA replication) necessary in both test types. Further, the microfluidic platform which includes reaction vessels for genotyping which are spatially removed from reaction vessels for copy number analysis, is coupled to optical scanner and detection systems specifically arranged to apply test specific detection routines on each of these distinct regions or portions of the dual mode test platform.