Apparatus and method for processing biological samples and a reservoir therefor

摘要

An apparatus for processing at least one biological sample accommodated on at least one carrier member (15) in a chamber includes, at least one reservoir (18) able to accommodate a fluid on a surface inside the chamber adjacent to and/or facing a substantial part of the at least one biological sample. The apparatus may comprise a bottom member (12) arranged to support at least one carrier member (15) carrying at least one biological sample and a lid (14) including at least one fluid reservoir (18). The reservoir filled with water provides humidity to the chamber and impedes drying out of the sample.

主权项

1. An automatic stainer for staining biological samples, said stainer comprising:
a carrier member supported within a chamber of the stainer, the carrier member configured to receive a biological sample and a reagent for staining the biological sample; a bottom member supporting said at least one carrier member; a hydrophilic porous solid reservoir configured to sorb and desorb water and water vapor; a lid for the chamber, detachable from the bottom member, the lid and the bottom member forming a closed chamber when the lid is positioned atop the bottom member, wherein the lid is configured to position the reservoir inside the closed chamber directly above the at least one biological sample such that the reservoir does not touch said at least one biological sample, when said lid is positioned atop the bottom member to form the closed chamber; and a sample temperature controlling device below said at least one carrier member controlling the temperature of said at least one carrier member and said at least one biological sample, wherein said reservoir either sorbs or desorbs water and water vapor so as to control relative humidity within said chamber at above 85% relative humidity, when said lid is positioned atop the bottom member to form the closed chamber.