ANALYTE COLLECTION APPARATUS AND METHOD

摘要

An analyte collection apparatus (1) is provided, comprising a gripper (3); and a compressible analyte collecting portion (5) releasably gripped (3) by the gripper (3), wherein the gripper exerts a force to grip and compress the analyte collecting portion (5). The analyte collecting portion (5) can be immersed in a buffer solution whilst in the partially compressed state, and allowed to expand therein, reducing the time required for non-specific binding of analytes to the analyte collecting portion. The analyte collection device (1) facilitates indirect handling of the collected analyte, preventing cross-contamination, and also allows for quick on-site testing.