Apparatus and method for performing an assay using magnetic particles

摘要

An assay apparatus (10) having a sample vessel (14) within which an assay may be performed. The apparatus further includes a holder (12) having a receptacle, socket or other device configured to operatively receive the sample vessel in a precise and easily repeated location with respect to the holder. A magnet (18) may be operatively associated with the holder such that a magnetic field generated by the magnet intersects a portion of the sample vessel defining a magnetic concentration region within the sample vessel. A separate or integrated detection or interrogation instrument, typically a spectrometer (40), may be provided.