SOLID GEL AMPLIFICATION METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PLATFORM MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS

摘要

The present invention provides for a novel system and method for amplification and detection of nucleic acids within a miniaturized device wherein sample administration occurs via capillary forces through a channel created by drying a hydrogel containing all components needed for a cell-free, enzymatic, nucleic-acid amplification system other than the template nucleic acid or precursor thereto, and wherein an aqueous sample is provided to the desiccated hydrogel, and the hydrogel is rehydrated, through capillary forces.

主权项

1. A cassette for performing interrogations for the presence of a nucleic acid within an aqueous sample comprising
an enclosing solid substrate; wax with at least one deformation on its surface; a multiplicity of capillaries with two opposing apertures;wherein
said capillaries contain a desiccated hydrogel containing all components needed for a cell-free nucleic acid amplification other than the template nucleic acid, within the capillaries there exists a space described by the inner diameter of said capillary and said desiccated hydrogel which allows atmospheric communication between opposing apertures and through said capillaries, said deformations are capable of receiving said capillaries, said deformations form a tight junction with the longitudinal surface of said capillaries and at least one end of said capillary is capable of receiving an aqueous sample, said wax with at least one deformation on its surface is contained within said solid substrate, said wax is optically transparent to at least two wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation wherein said at least two wavelengths are capable of differentiation by an optical detection means, and said enclosing substrate is capable of containing the wax when in a molten state.