Method and apparatus for preparing cell samples for intracellular antigen detection using flow cytometry
US7354773B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 14, 2003 |
| Grant date | Apr 8, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 27, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/25375
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus for preparing biological cell samples for intracellular analysis. The invention is based upon the recognition that many of the steps of the conventional methods for such sample preparation can be eliminated, leading to a process that readily lends itself to automation and the advantages associated therewith. The method of the invention comprises the steps of (a) cell-fixation, (b) permeabilization and (c) staining (or labeling) of intracellular molecules of interest by probes that are readily detectable by flow cytometric techniques, all without any intervening cell-washing (and re-suspension) steps. Rather, the single cell-washing step is effected after these three steps have been carried out. Preferably, the washing step is carried out by passing the fixed, permeabilized and stained cell sample through a semi-permeable membrane that serves to filter out (by transmission) interferants to waste while retaining the cells of interest.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.