Controlled transfer biological sample collection devices and methods of using such devices

摘要

The field of the present invention pertains to a controlled transfer biological collection device using a dry solid storage and transfer medium and a method for the collection of biological material of interest (genetic or proteinaceous material) in a form suitable for storage and/or subsequent analysis. Specifically, the present invention provides for a sampling device that controls the transfer of the biological sample to the storage medium by holding the storage medium and a moveable sample collection member having an analyte collection surface. The invention further provides for a method not only for storing a biological analyte on this collection device but also for analyzing the stored biological analyte using methods that are suited for automated analyzing systems.

主权项

1. A method for collecting a biological sample that contains degradable biologically sourced analytes comprising:
a) obtaining a device comprised of
i) a sample collection member having an analyte collection surface in the form of a pad of material mounted to an elongated stem that extends in a longitudinal direction;ii) a sample storage medium wherein the sample storage medium comprises at least one stabilizing reagent that preserves at least one biological sample analyte for transport or storage; andiii) a storage medium holder having one or more retention arms and a means for pressing the pad onto the sample storage medium, for transfer of at least a portion of the biological sample onto the sample storage medium,iv) wherein the sample collection member is configured to be moveable between at least two positions including a first position in which the pad of material is spaced from the sample storage medium in the longitudinal direction and a second position where the pad of material is in contact with the sample storage medium,v) wherein the sample storage medium is slidably insertable into the storage medium holder in a direction generally parallel to an interface formed between the pad of material and the sample storage medium when the pad of material is in the second position, andvi) wherein the one or more retention arms are configured to removably hold the sample storage medium in a position by exerting a force on the sample storage medium; b) collecting a biological sample on the pad; c) moving the sample collection member between at least two positions, including the first position and the second position, while the one or more retention arms hold the sample storage medium in position d) operating the storage medium holder to press the pad onto the sample storage medium; e) releasing the pad from the sample storage medium; and f) removing the sample storage medium from the storage medium holder.