Diagnostic testing process and apparatus
US7205159B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 20, 2002 |
| Grant date | Apr 17, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 29, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S436/81
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus for use in a flow through assay process is disclosed. The method is characterised by a “pre-incubation step” in which the sample which is to be analysed, (typically for the presence of a particular protein), and a detection analyte (typically an antibody bound to colloidal gold or a fluorescent tag) which is known to bind to the particular protein may bind together for a desired period of time. This pre incubation step occurs before the mixture of sample and detection analyte come into contact with a capture analyte bound to a membrane. The provision of the pre-incubation step has the effect of both improving the sensitivity of the assay and reducing the volume of sample required for an assay. An apparatus for carrying out the method is disclosed defining a pre-incubation chamber for receiving the sample and detection analyte having a base defined by a membrane and a second membrane to which a capture analyte is bound. In one version the pre-incubation chamber is supported above the second membrane in one position but can be pushed into contact with the membrane carrying the capture analyte thus permitting fluid transfer from the incubation chamber through th…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.