Methods of processing samples

摘要

Processing containers include a first member having a substantially rigid body with a plurality of regions defining spaced apart workstations and a flexible barrier member sealably attached to the first member to define a closed chamber over the plurality of workstations. The flexible barrier is substantially impermeable and includes or is a manipulation tool that is sealably attached to the barrier. The manipulation tool has a first internal interface that resides in the closed chamber under the flexible barrier and a second external interface that resides outside the closed chamber. The processing containers are particularly suitable for automated processing of nucleic acids and other samples. The manipulation tool can cooperate with or include a pipette head. When the barrier is sealed, the barrier separates the contents of the container from a robotic arm or other manipulation device.

主权项

1. A method of processing biological samples, comprising:
providing a closed processing system comprising a container assembly comprising a first member having a substantially rigid body and a flexible barrier member sealably attached to the first member to define an internal chamber, wherein the flexible barrier member is substantially impermeable, and wherein a plurality of flexible conduits are in fluid communication with the internal chamber and extend outward from the first member; processing a biological sample in the internal chamber while the flexible barrier remains sealably attached to the first member, wherein the flexible barrier can move up and down during the processing; and automatically directing a pump in communication with at least one of the plurality of flexible conduits to flow at least one amount of the processed biological sample out of the internal chamber through at least one of the flexible conduits to at least one aliquot vessel without disrupting a sealed state of the closed processing system.