Automated two-dimensional electrophoresis apparatus and instrument constituting the apparatus

摘要

The present invention is to provide a sample separation instrument used in a sample separation apparatus which includes: holding means for holding a first medium supporter which supports a first medium; and driving means for moving fixing means or the holding means in a direction parallel or perpendicular to a plane whose sides extend in the first direction and in the second directions. The sample separation instrument includes an insulator for storing a second medium which allows a sample separated in the first medium in the first direction to be further separated in the second direction different from the first direction, wherein: the insulator includes a first opening and a second opening each of which defines the second direction in which the second medium is electrified, and the second opening has a shape which allows the first medium containing the separated sample to be attached to the second medium along the first direction. The present invention realizes automation of the two-dimensional electrophoresis to enhance the convenience of the two-dimensional electrophoresis, to less depend on the operator's skill, and to enhance the reproducibility of the electrophoresis result.