System, device and method for detection of several individual analystes in a solution, and a disposible flow cell for use therein

摘要

A system, device and method for detection of several individual analytes in a test solution aliquot ( 83 ) with an array of individually operated piezoelectric crystal microbalances are described. The system comprises a connecting station ( 100 ) that receives a plurality of individually specific piezoelectric crystal microbalance flow-trough cells ( 10 ), each containing a piezoelectric crystal ( 50 ) carrying electrodes ( 56,62 ) and a coating ( 66,46 ) exposing a first member of an interaction pair specific for an individual analyte being a second member of the interaction pair. Flowing means ( 70 ) flows a solution ( 75 ) and the test solution aliquot ( 83 ) to and through a cell compartment of each of the cells ( 10 ) via the connecting station ( 100 ). Power and measurement means ( 130 ) oscillate the piezoelectric crystal(s) ( 50 ). A change in oscillating characteristics of the crystal(s) ( 50 ), following interaction between the first and second members of the interaction pair, detects presence of the individual analyte(s). Further, disposable flow cells ( 10 ) for use in an array of individually operated piezoelectric crystal microbalances ( 112 ) is described.