Apparatus and method for rapid ultrasonic disruption of cells or viruses
US6431476B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 21, 1999 |
| Grant date | Aug 13, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 21, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01L2400/0644
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The present invention provides an apparatus and method for disrupting cells or viruses to release the nucleic acid therefrom. The apparatus includes a container having a chamber for holding the cells or viruses. The apparatus also includes an ultrasonic transducer for contacting a wall of the chamber and for transmitting ultrasonic energy into the chamber through the wall. A support structure holds the container and the transducer against each other such that the transducer contacts the wall of the chamber. The support structure includes an elastic body, such as a spring, for applying to the container or to the transducer a substantially constant force to press together the transducer and the wall. The chamber also preferably contains beads for enhancing the disruption of the cells or viruses. The apparatus performs rapid and consistent lysis of cells or viruses, often in as little time as 5 to 10 seconds.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.