Sample processing device and method Number:6,780,617 from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) owispatent

Title: Sample processing device and method

Abstract: A device for processing a biological sample includes a processing unit having at least one opening to receive a sample vessel and a plurality of processing stations positioned along the opening. The processing stations each have a compression member adapted to compress the sample vessel within the opening and thereby move the sample within the sample vessel among the processing stations. An energy transfer element can be coupled to one or more of the processing stations for transferring thermal energy to the sample at a processing station. The device can be used for PCR processing of nucleic acid samples. A sample vessel of the present invention can be a tubule flow-chamber having a plurality of segments separated by pressure gates. The sample vessel minimizes sample handling by providing a closed tubule in which distinct processing steps can be carried out in each of the segments of the tubule.

Patent Number: 6,780,617 Issued on 08/24/2004 to Chen

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Inventors:	Chen; Shuqi (Brookline, MA)
Assignee:	Chen & Chen, LLC (Brookline, MA)
Appl. No.:	09/782,732
Filed:	February 13, 2001

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Current U.S. Class:	435/91.2 ; 204/453; 204/455; 204/604; 435/286.5; 435/287.2; 435/287.3; 435/288.7
Field of Search:	435/91.2,286.5,287.2,287.3,288.7 204/450-467,604 935/85,88 422/99,101

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References Cited [Referenced By]

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Kenneth Mason Publications; "Simplified PCR Processor and Method", Research Disclosure, Hampshire, GB, vol. 401, pp. 651-655, (Sep. 1, 1997). . Kenneth Mason Publications; "PCR Processor", Research Disclosure, Hampshire, GB, vol. 396 pp. 207-211, (Apr. 1, 1997). . International Search Report Completed on Jun. 27, 2002 and Mailed on Jul. 16, 2002. . World Wide Web Page, Quantitation of DNA/RNA Using Real-time PCR Detection, www.appliedbiosystems.com/molecularbiology/about/white.htm/per/sds/ (Applied Biosystems), pp. 1-8, Oct. 31, 2000. . World Wide Web Page, Quantitative Real-Time PCR, www.lsc.psu.edu/stf/naf/quantitative.htm/ (PennState Life Sciences Consortium, Shared Technology Facilities), pp. 1-3, Oct. 31, 2000. . (Nalge Nunc International), World Wide Web Page, DIAPOPS, http://nunc.nalgenunc.com/resource/technical/nag/dp0014.htm, pp. 1-4, Oct. 31, 2000. . Boehringer Mannheim, Lightcycler Instrument, pp. 1-16, Jul. 1998. . Roche Molecular Biochemicals, LightCycler System, Real-time PCR--as flexible as you are, pp. 1-34, Jan. 2000. . Belgrader, P., et al., PCR Detection of Bacteria in Seven Minutes, Science 284, pp. 449-450. Apr. 16, 1999. . Intergen, Amplifluor Universal Detection System, Versatile, Quantitative Detection for PCR in Endpoint and Real-time. . Partial International Search Report for PCT/US02/28951, Mailed on Jul. 8, 2003..

Primary Examiner: Redding; David A.
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Foley Hoag LLP

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Parent Case Text

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REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/259,025 filed on Dec. 29, 2000. The contents of the aforementioned application are hereby incorporated by reference.

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Claims

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Having described the invention, what is claimed as new and desired to be secured by Letters Patent is:

1. A thermal cycler comprising a processing unit having an opening to receive a sample vessel containing a sample, the processing unit having a first processing station, a second processing station, and a third processing station positional along the opening, the first processing station including a first compression member adapted to compress the sample vessel within the opening and a first energy transfer element for transferring energy to the sample at the first processing station, the second processing station including a second compression member adapted to compress the sample vessel within the opening and a second energy transfer element for transferring energy to the sample at the second processing station, and the third processing station including a third compression member adapted to compress the sample vessel within the opening and a third energy transfer element for transferring energy to the sample at the third processing station, wherein compression of the sample vessel by of one of the compression members displaces the sample within the sample vessel between the processing stations.

2. The thermal cycler of claim 1, further comprising at least one sensor for detecting a signal from to content within the sample vessel.

3. The thermal cycler of claim 2, wherein the sensor comprises an optical sensor for measuring light signal from the contents with the sample vessel.

4. The thermal cycler of claim 3, wherein the light signal comprises fluorescent light.

5. The thermal cycler of claim 2, wherein the sensor monitors the signal from the content within the sample vessel in real time.

6. A thermal cycler comprising a processing unit having an opening to receive a sample vessel containing a sample, the processing unit having a first processing station and a second processing station positioned along the opening, the first processing station including a first compression member adapted to compress the sample vessel within the opening and a first energy transfer element for transferring energy to the sample at the first processing station, and the second processing station including a second compression member adapted to compress the sample vessel within the opening and a second energy transfer element for transferring energy to the sample at the second processing station, wherein compression of the sample vessel by of one of the compression members displaces the sample within the sample vessel between the processing stations.

7. The thermal cycler of claim 6, further comprising ax least one sensor for detecting a signal from the content within the sample vessel.

8. The thermal cycler of claim 7, wherein the sensor comprises an optical sensor for measuring light signal from the contents with the sample vessel.

9. The thermal cycler of claim 8, wherein the light signal comprises fluorescent light.

10. The thermal cycler of claim 7, wherein the sensor monitors the signal from the content within the sample vessel in real time.

11. The thermal cycler of claim 1, further comprising at least one energy insulator positioned adjacent at least one processing station.

12. The thermal cycler of claim 1, wherein at least one of the the energy transfer elements comprises at least one of an electronic heat element, a microwave source, a light source, an ultrasonic source and a cooling element.

13. The thermal cycler of claim 1, further comprising a control system coupled to at least one energy transfer element to control the energy transferred to or from that energy transfer element.

14. The thermal cycler of claim 13, further comprising a temperature sensor coupled to the control system.

15. The thermal cycler of claim 1, wherein at least one processing station further comprises a heat sink.

16. The thermal cycler of claim 1, wherein at least one processing station includes a stationary member opposing the respective compression member across the opening, wherein the respective compression member compresses the sample vessel against the stationary member within the opening.

17. The thermal cycler of claim 1, further comprising a driver coupled to at least one compression member to selectively move that compression member and thereby compress the sample vessel within the opening.

18. The thermal cycler of claim 17, wherein the driver is a motor and is coupled to the at least one compression member by a cam.

19. The thermal cycler of claim 17, wherein the driver is an electromagnetic actuating mechanism.

20. The thermal cycler of claim 1, further comprising an energy source for applying energy to at the sample within the sample vessel to generate a signal from the sample.

21. The thermal cycler of claim 1, further comprising an electrophoresis system comprising a pair of electrodes adapted to have a predetermined voltage difference and an electrode actuator for inserting the electrodes into the sample vessel.

22. The thermal cycler of claim 1, further comprising a reagent injector cartridge actuator adapted to receive a reagent injector cartridge having at least one needle in fluid communication with a reagent reservoir, the reagent injector cartridge actuator operable to move the reagent injector cartridge to inject a quantity of reagent into the sample vessel.

23. The thermal cycler of claim 1, wherein compression of the sample vessel by one of the compression members displaces a reagent within the sample vessel between the processing stations.

24. A method of thermal cycling, comprising: adding a sample to a sample vessel; introducing the sample vessel into a thermal cycler as set forth in claim 1; compressing the sample vessel with the first compression member to move the sample within the sample vessel from the first processing station to the second processing station; transferring energy to the sample at the second processing station; compressing the sample vessel with the second compression member; and transferring energy to the sample at the first processing station.

25. The method of claim 24, further comprising adding a reagent to the sample in the sample vessel.

26. The method of claim 24, further comprising heating the sample in the first processing unit to a first temperature.

27. The method of claim 26, further comprising heating the sample in the second processing unit to a second temperature.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the first temperature is effective to denature nucleic acid in the sample and the second temperature is one at which nucleic acid annealing and nucleic acid synthesis can occur.

29. The method of claim 24, further comprising analyzing the sample by detecting a signal from the sample, and analyzing the detected signal to determine a condition of the sample.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein analyzing further comprises applying an excitation energy to the sample.

31. The method of claim 24, further comprising conducting electrophoresis analysis of the sample by: applying a selective voltage to the sample; detecting light emitted from the sample; and analyzing the detected light to determine a condition of the sample.

32. The method of claim 24, further comprising: applying an excitation energy to a bio-array member contained within the sample vessel; detecting light emitted from the bio-array member; and analyzing the detected light to determine a condition of the sample.

33. The method of claim 24, further comprising agitating the sample within the sample vessel.

34. A method of thermal cycling, comprising: adding a sample to a sample vessel; introducing the sample vessel into a thermal cycler as set forth in claim 1; compressing the sample vessel with the first compression member; transferring energy to the sample with the second energy transfer element; compressing the sample vessel with the second compression member; transferring energy to the sample with the third energy transfer element; compressing the sample vessel with the third compression member; and transferring energy to the sample with the first energy transfer element.

35. The method of claim 34, further comprising agitating the sample within the sample vessel.

36. The method of claim 34, further comprising heating the sample in the first processing unit to a first temperature.

37. The method of claim 36, further comprising heating the sample in the second processing unit to a second temperature.

38. The method of claim 37, further comprising heating the sample in the third processing unit to a third temperature.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein the first temperature is effective to denature nucleic acid in the sample, the second temperature is one at which nucleic acid annealing can occur, and the third temperature is one at which nucleic acid synthesis can occur.

40. A method of thermal cycling, comprising: adding a sample to a sample vessel; introducing the sample vessel into a thermal cycler as set forth in claim 6; compressing the sample vessel with the first compression member to move the sample within the sample vessel from the first processing station to the second processing station; transferring energy to the sample at the second processing station; compressing the sample vessel with the second compression member; and transferring energy to the sample at the first processing station.

41. The method of claim 40, further comprising adding a reagent to the sample in the sample vessel.

42. The method of claim 41, further comprising heating the sample in the first processing unit to a first temperature.

43. The method of claim 42, further comprising heating the sample in the second processing unit to a second temperature.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the first temperature is effective to denature nucleic acid in the sample and the second temperature is one at which nucleic acid annealing and nucleic acid synthesis can occur.

45. The method of claim 40, further comprising analyzing the sample by detecting a signal from the sample, and analyzing the detected signal to determine a condition of the sample.

46. The method of claim 45, wherein analyzing further comprises applying an excitation energy to the sample.

47. The method of claim 40, further comprising conducting electrophoresis analysis of the sample by: applying a selective voltage to the sample; detecting light emitted from the sample; and analyzing the detected light to determine a condition of the sample.

48. The method of claim 40, further comprising: applying an excitation energy to a bio-array member contained within the sample vessel; detecting light emitted from the bio-array member; and analyzing the detected light to determine a condition of the sample.

49. The method of claim 40, further comprising agitating the sample within the sample vessel.

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Description

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BACKGROUND

As result of the Human Genome Project and other genetic research, a tremendous amount of genomic and biomarker information is presently available to healthcare providers. Using molecular diagnostic testing, genomic and biomarker information can provide a resource to healthcare providers to assist in the rapid and accurate diagnosis of illness. However, the development of diagnostic testing systems allowing the use of such genetic information, particularly in the clinical setting, has failed to match pace with the genetic research providing the information. Current diagnostic testing systems are mainly limited to large medical testing centers or research labs due to the high costs associated with acquiring and operating the systems and the complexity of the molecular diagnostic assays being employed. These current systems require a large initial capital investment and incur high costs for reagents, disposables, operation, maintenance, service and training.

SUMMARY

The present invention provides sample processing devices and methods that facilitate the rapid analysis of biological samples, such as blood, saliva, or urine, in an efficient and cost effective manner with minimal, if any, exposure to biohazards. The sample processing devices and methods of the present invention are particularly suited to the clinical setting, allowing the clinician to readily proceed from acquisition of a test sample to analysis of the test results, with minimal human intervention. The sample processing devices of the present invention may be implemented as a hand-held system suitable for the processing of a single sample or as a larger, bench top unit suitable for the simultaneous processing of multiple samples. The present invention may be valuable in all diagnostic and therapeutic monitoring areas, including in the point-of-care or clinical setting, in high-throughput screening, and in biological warfare detection. In addition, the present invention provides a sample vessel for holding a biological sample throughout the processing of the sample.

In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a device for processing a sample includes a processing unit having an opening to receive a sample vessel and at least one processing station positioned along the opening. The processing station includes a compression member adapted to compress the sample vessel within the opening and thereby displace a content of the sample vessel within the sample vessel. The content displaced by the compression member can be, for example, the sample, a reagent, or a mixture of the content and a reagent.

In accordance with another aspect, the processing station may include an energy transfer element for transferring energy to or from the content within the sample vessel and a control system coupled to the energy transfer element to control the energy transferred to or from the content. The energy transfer element can be, for example, an electronic heat element, a microwave source, a light source, an ultrasonic source or a cooling element.

In accordance with a further aspect, the energy transfer element transfers thermal energy to or from the content within the sample vessel. An energy insulator may be positioned adjacent the processing station. The energy insulator can be, for example, an energy shielding layer, an energy absorption layer, an energy refraction layer, or a thermal insulator, depending on the type of energy transfer element employed. A temperature sensor may be coupled to the control system to monitor temperature at the processing station. Alternatively, the processing station may include a heat sink to dissipate thermal energy from the processing station.

In accordance with another aspect, the processing station may include a stationary member opposing the compression member across the opening. The compression member can operate to compress the sample vessel against the stationary member within the opening.

In accordance with a further aspect, a driver may be coupled to the compression member to selectively move the compression member and thereby compress the sample vessel within the opening. The driver can be, for example, a motor coupled to the compression member by a cam. Alternatively, the driver can be an electromagnetic actuating mechanism.

In accordance with another aspect, the processing device can include a sensor for detecting a signal from the content within the sample vessel. An energy source can optionally be provided for applying energy to the content within the sample vessel to generate a signal from the content. In one embodiment, the processing device can include an electrophoresis system comprising a pair of electrodes adapted to have a predetermined voltage difference and an electrode actuator for inserting the electrodes into the sample vessel.

In accordance with a further aspect, the processing device may include a reagent injector cartridge actuator adapted to receive a reagent injector cartridge having at least one needle in fluid communication with a reagent reservoir. The reagent injector cartridge actuator can be operable to move the reagent injector cartridge to inject a quantity of reagent into the sample vessel.

In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, a sample vessel for holding a sample includes a sample containing portion for holding the sample and a handling portion for handling the sample vessel. The sample containing portion can have a wall constructed of a flexible material permitting substantial flattening of a selected segment of the sample containing portion. The handling portion can be coupled to the sample containing portion and preferably has a generally rigid construction to facilitate handling of the sample vessel.

In accordance with another aspect, the sample containing portion of the sample vessel can be a tubule.

In accordance with a further aspect, the sample vessel can include at least one pressure gate disposed within the sample containing portion to divide the sample containing portion into a plurality of segments. At least one of the segments of the sample vessel can have a filter contained therein that is structured to separate selected components of a sample material from other components of the sample material. Additionally, at least one of the segments of the sample vessel can contain a reagent. The reagent can be, for example, an anticoagulant, a cell lyses reagent, a nucleotide, an enzyme, a DNA polymerase, a template DNA, an oligonucleotide, a primer, an antigen, an antibody, a dye, a marker, a molecular probe, a buffer, or a detection material. The sample containing portion also can include an electrophoresis segment containing a gel for electrophoresis. The electrophoresis segment can include a pair of electrodes adapted to maintain a predetermined voltage difference therebetween. Additionally, one of the segments can contain multilayer membranes or a micro-array bio-chip for analyzing the sample.

In accordance with another aspect, the sample containing portion can include a self-sealing injection channel formed therein. The self sealing injection channel is preferably normally substantially free of sample material and capable of fluid communication with the sample material in the sample containing portion.

In accordance with another aspect, the sample vessel can include an instrument for obtaining a sample coupled to the sample vessel.

In accordance with a further aspect, the handling portion of the sample vessel includes an opening for receiving a sample. The sample vessel also can include a closure for selective closing the opening. Preferably, the closure seats against the handling portion to close the opening. In addition, the instrument for obtaining a sample can be coupled to the closure of the sample vessel.

In accordance with another aspect, the handling portion has a wall thickness greater than a thickness of the wall of the sample containing portion. Preferably, the thickness of the wall of the sample containing portion is less than or equal to 0.3 mm. In one embodiment, the handling portion can include a cylindrical sleeve sized and shaped to fit over a portion of the sample containing portion. The handling portion is preferably positioned longitudinally adjacent the sample containing portion.

In accordance with another embodiment, a sample vessel for holding a sample includes a sample containing portion having at least one pressure gate disposed within the sample containing portion to divide the sample containing portion into a plurality of segments. Preferably, at least one segment of the sample containing portion has a wall constructed of a flexible material permitting substantial flattening of the segment of the sample containing portion.

In accordance with another embodiment, a method of processing a sample within a sample vessel includes the steps of introducing the sample vessel into a device for processing the sample and compressing the sample vessel to move the sample within the sample vessel from a first segment to a second segment of the sample vessel.

In accordance with another aspect, the method of processing a sample can include the step of introducing a reagent to the sample within a segment of the sample vessel.

In accordance with a further aspect, the method of processing a sample can include the step of heating the sample in the first segment to a first temperature. The method can also include the step of heating the sample to a second temperature in the second segment. In one embodiment, the first temperature can be effective to denature the sample and the second temperature is one at which nucleic acid annealing and nucleic acid synthesis can occur. The method of processing a sample can further include the steps of compressing the sample vessel to move the sample within the sample vessel from the second segment to the first segment of the sample vessel and heating the sample to the first temperature in the first segment.

In accordance with another aspect, the method of processing the sample can include the step of analyzing the sample by detecting a signal from the sample within a segment of the sample vessel and analyzing the detected signal to determine a condition of the sample. The analyzing step can include applying an excitation energy to the sample within the segment of the sample vessel. Additionally, the analyzing step can include conducting electrophoresis analysis of the sample by applying a selective voltage to the sample within a segment of the sample vessel, detecting light emitted from the sample, and analyzing the detected light to determine a condition of the sample.

Alternatively, the analyzing step can include applying an excitation energy to a bio-array member contained within a segment of the sample vessel, detecting light emitted from the bio-array member, and analyzing the detected light to determine a condition of the sample. The bio-array member can be, for example, a multi-layer membrane or a micro-array bio-chip.

In accordance with a further aspect, the method of processing a sample can include the step of agitating the sample within a segment of the sample vessel.

In accordance with another embodiment, a method of treating a sample within a sample vessel can include the steps of introducing the sample vessel into a device for processing the sample within the sample vessel and compressing one of the segments to mix the reagent with the sample within the sample vessel. Preferably, the sample vessel has a plurality of segments including a segment for containing a reagent and a segment for containing the sample.

In accordance with another aspect, the method of processing the sample can include the step of introducing the reagent into a reagent segment of the sample after the step of introducing the sample vessel into the device for processing the sample.

In accordance with another embodiment, a thermal cycler includes a processing unit having an opening to receive a sample vessel containing a sample. The processing unit can have a first processing station, a second processing station, and a third processing station positioned along the opening. The first processing station can include a first compression member adapted to compress the sample vessel within the opening and a first energy transfer element for transferring energy to the sample at the first processing station. The second processing station can include a second compression member adapted to compress the sample vessel within the opening and a second energy transfer element for transferring energy to the sample at the second processing station. The third processing station can include a third compression member adapted to compress the sample vessel within the opening and a third energy transfer element for transferring energy to the sample at the third processing station. Compression of the sample vessel by of one of the compression members can displace the sample within the sample vessel between the processing stations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be more fully understood by reference to the following detailed description in conjunction with the attached drawings in which like reference numerals refer to like elements through the different views. The drawings illustrate principles of the invention and, although not to scale, show relative dimensions.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a device for processing a sample according to the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the device of FIG. 1, illustrating a compression member of a processing station of the device compressing the sample vessel;

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an alternative embodiment of a device for processing a sample according to the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an alternative embodiment of a device for processing a sample according to the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a hand held device for processing a sample according to the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a bench top device for processing a sample according to the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 6, illustrating the device with the top cover removed;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a thermal cycling processing unit according to the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the processing unit of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a partially exploded, perspective view of a processing station of the processing unit of FIG. 8, illustrating a heat block unit and an insulator block unit of the processing station;

FIG. 11 is a partially exploded, perspective view of the processing unit of FIG. 8, illustrating a plurality of heating block units and insulator block units;

FIG. 12 is a partially exploded, perspective view of a processing station of an alternative embodiment of a processing unit according to the present invention;

FIGS. 13A-13G are side elevational views, in cross-section, of a processing unit of the present invention, illustrating the operation of the processing unit;

FIG. 14 is a side elevational view, in cross section, of a gel electrophoresis analysis unit of the present invention;

FIGS. 15A-15B are side elevational views, in cross-section, of embodiments of a sample vessel according to the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a side elevation view, in cross section, of a portion of a sample vessel according to the present invention, illustrating an injection channel formed in the sample vessel;

FIG. 17 is a side elevational view of a reagent cartridge according to the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a side elevational view, in cross-section, of a sample vessel according to the present invention; and

FIGS. 19A-19C illustrate an alternative embodiment of a processing unit of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention provides devices and methods for processing a sample. The term "processing" as used herein generally refers to the preparation, treatment, analysis, and/or the performance of other testing protocols or assays on a content of the sample vessel in one or more steps. Exemplary processing steps include, for example: displacing a content, e.g., the sample or a reagent, of the sample vessel within the sample vessel to, for example, adjust the volume of the content, separate content components, mix contents within the sample vessel; effecting a chemical or biological reaction within a segment of the sample vessel by, for example, introducing a reagent to the sample, agitating the sample, transferring thermal energy to or from the sample, incubating the sample at a specified temperature, amplifying components of the sample, separating and/or isolating components of the sample; or analyzing the sample to determine a characteristic of the sample, such as, for example, the quantity, volume, mass, concentration, sequence, or nucleic acid size or other analyte size, of the sample. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the forgoing exemplary processing steps are described herein for illustrative purposes only. Other processing steps may be employed without departing from the scope of the present invention.

A device for processing a sample according to the present invention can integrate one or more processing units into a single system depending on the process being employed. The processing units can include one or more processing stations at which one or more processing steps can be performed on the sample within the sample vessel. Sample materials that can be processed according to the present invention are generally biological samples or samples containing biological substance and include, for example, blood, urine, saliva, cell suspensions, biofluids, a piece of tissue, soil or other samples. A sample processing device of the present invention is particularly suited for nucleic acid amplification, such as polymer chain reaction (PCR) or ligase chain reaction (LCR) amplification, and can include, for example, a sample pretreatment unit for extracting nucleic acid from sample, a thermal cycling reaction unit for amplification of the nucleic acid or signal, and (optionally) an analysis or detection unit for analyzing the amplified product. The sample processing device of the present invention can also be used for isothermal reaction of nucleic acid or signal amplifications, such as strand displacement amplification (SDA), rolling circle amplification (RCA), and transcription-mediated amplification (TMA). Other exemplary processes to be performed on samples can include clinical diagnosis, therapeutic monitoring, and screening of chemical compounds for discovery of new drugs. The following description primarily focuses on PCR amplification for illustration. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the devices and methods of the present invention are not limited to PCR amplification, as the devices and methods described below can be employed in other sample processing.

An exemplary embodiment of a device for processing a sample is illustrated in FIG. 1. The processing device 10 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes a processing unit 12 having an opening 14 to receive a sample vessel 16. The opening 14 can be a tubular shaped opening, an open-faced slot or other structure for receiving the sample vessel 16 in a removable and replaceable manner. The processing unit 12 includes a first processing station 18 and a second processing station 20, each positioned along the length of the opening 14. The first processing station 18 includes a compression member 22 adapted to compress the sample vessel 16 within the opening 14 and thereby displace a content of the sample vessel within the sample vessel 16. The content of the sample vessel can be, for example, the sample, a reagent contained within the sample vessel, or a mixture of the sample and the reagent. A driver 24 is coupled to the compression member 22 to selectively move the compression member 22 and thereby compress the sample vessel 16 within the opening 14. The driver 24 can be, for example, an electromagnetic actuating mechanism, a motor, a solenoid, or any other device for imparting motion, preferably reciprocal motion, to the compression member 22, as described in further detail below.

Preferably, the compression member 22 is constructed from a rigid material such as a rigid plastic or a metal. The compression member can be constructed in any shape sufficient to impart a compressive force on the sample vessel. For example, the compression member 22 can be a block having a rectilinear, planar surface for engaging the sample vessel 16, as illustrated in FIG. 1. Alternatively, the compression member can have a curved, angular, or non-planar surface for engaging the sample vessel 16.

Moreover, the compression member 22 alternatively can be an inflatable membrane that can be inflated by a fluid, e.g., air, nitrogen, saline, or water, to impart a compressive force on the sample vessel. In this embodiment, the amount of compression of the sample vessel may be controlled by the adjusting the inflation pressure of the membrane.

The first processing station 18 can optionally include a stationary member 26 positioned opposite the compression member 22 across the opening 14. The compression member 22, thus, can compress a portion of the sample vessel 16 within the opening 14 against the stationary member 26, as illustrated in FIG. 2. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the stationary member 26 may be replaced with a second compression member, such that the processing station includes two compression members that move together to compress the sample vessel therebetween. In addition, a stationary member or second compression member may be omitted by securing the sample vessel 16 within the opening on either side of the compression member.

In the illustrated embodiment, the sample vessel 16 is a closed tubule flow-chamber for holding the sample. Preferably, one or more segments of the sample vessel 16 are constructed of a flexible, compressible material, such as, for example, polyethylene or polyurethane, to allow selective compression, and preferably flattening, of the sample vessel to move the sample, or other contents of the sample vessel, within the sample vessel, preferably while the sample vessel 16 remains in the device 10. In one preferred embodiment, the sample vessel 16 includes a plurality of segments separated by an integral, internal structure, such as a micro-fluidic pressure gate, as described in more detail below. Alternatively, the sample vessel 16 can be constructed without internal, integral structures to form segments and the device 10 can be utilized to segment the sample vessel by compressing selective portions of the sample vessel. One skilled in the art will appreciate that other types of sample vessels suitable for containing a sample may be used with the device 10 without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The second processing station 20 can include a sensor 28 for detecting a signal from the content, e.g., the sample or a reagent, of the sample vessel 16. For example, the sensor 28 can be an optical sensor for measuring light, for example fluorescent light, emitted from the sample or from fluorescent probes within the sample. In addition, multiple sensors or a spectrum sensor can be used when detection of multiple wavelength light is required. The detected signal can be sent to a CPU 30 to analyze the detected signal and determine a characteristic of the sample.

In operation, a sample can be introduced to a first segment A of the sample vessel 16 by injecting the sample through the walls of the sample vessel 16 or by introducing the sample through an opening formed in the sample vessel 16, as described in more detail below. In the present exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the sample vessel 16 includes a pressure gate 32 that divides the sample vessel 16 into a first segment A and a second segment B. The sample vessel 14 can be inserted into the opening 14 of the device 10 such that the first segment A of the sample vessel 16 is aligned with the first processing station 18 and the second segment B is aligned with the second processing station 20, as illustrated in FIG. 1.

The driver 24 can operate to move the compression member 22 into contact with the sample vessel 16 such that the first segment A of the sample vessel 16 is compressed within the opening 14 between the compression member 22 and the stationary member 26. As the first segment A of the sample vessel 16 is compressed, a quantity of sample is displaced from the first segment A to the second segment B through the pressure gate 32. The volume of sample displaced is proportional to the amount of compression of the first segment A by the compression member 22. Thus, the compression member 22 of the first processing station 18 can be used to displace a specific quantity of sample into the second segment B of the sample vessel 16 for analysis at the second processing station 20. Substantially all of the sample can be displaced from the first segment A of the sample vessel 16 by completely flattening the first segment A of the sample vessel 16, as illustrated in FIG. 2. The sample can be analyzed in the second segment B of the sample vessel 16 at the second processing station 20.

An alternative embodiment of a device for processing a sample is illustrated in FIG. 3. The device 38 includes a processing unit 40 having three processing stations positioned along the opening 14, namely, a first process station 42, a second processing station 44 adjacent the first processing station 42, and a third processing station 46 adjacent the second processing station 44.

The first processing station 42 includes a compression member 22 coupled to a driver 24 and adapted to compress a segment of the sample vessel 16 against a stationary member 26 within the opening 16. The first processing station 42 can operate to displace a selective quantity of the sample from a first segment A of the sample vessel into other segments of the sample vessel.

The second processing station 44 includes a compression member 22 coupled to a driver 24 and adapted to compress a second segment B of the sample vessel 16 against a stationary member 26 within the opening 16. The second processing station 44 includes an energy transfer element 48 for transferring energy to or from the contents of the sample vessel 16. The energy transfer element 48 can be, for example, an electronic heat element, a microwave source, a light source, an ultrasonic source, a cooling element, or any other device for transferring energy. In one embodiment, the energy transfer element 48 transfers thermal energy to or from the sample within the sample vessel. The energy transfer element 48 can be embedded in or otherwise coupled to the compression member 22, as illustrated in FIG. 3. Alternatively, the energy transfer element 48 can be coupled to the stationary member 26 or can be positioned within the processing station independent of the compression member or the stationary member. The energy transfer element 48 can be coupled to a control system that controls the energy transferred to or from the sample vessel 16 by the energy transfer element 48. The control system can be a component system of the CPU 30 or can be an independent system. The control system can also include a temperature sensor 50 to monitor the temperature of the energy transfer element.

The second processing station 44 also can include a sensor 52 for detecting a signal from the content of the sample vessel, particularly during processing in the second processing station. For example, the sensor 52 can be an optical sensor for measuring light, for example fluorescent light, emitted from the sample or from fluorescent probes within the sample. The sensor 52 can be coupled to the CPU 30 for analysis of the detected signal to determine a characteristic of the sample.

The third processing station 46 can include a sensor 28 for detecting a signal from the content, e.g., the sample or a reagent, of the sample vessel 16. For example, the sensor 28 can be an optical sensor for measuring light, for example fluorescent light, emitted from the sample or from fluorescent probes within the sample. In addition, multiple sensors or a spectrum sensor can be used when detection of multiple wavelength light is required. The detected signal can be sent to a CPU 30 to analyze the detected signal and determine a characteristic of the sample.

In operation, a sample can be introduced into a first segment A of the sample vessel 16 and the sample vessel 16 can be introduced into the opening 14 of the device 10. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the sample vessel 16 includes two pressure gates 32 that divide the sample vessel 16 into three segments, namely, the first segment A, a second segment B, and a third segment C. The first processing station 42 can operate to displace a selective amount of the sample into the second segment B of the sample vessel 16 for processing at the second processing station 44.

At the second processing station 44, energy can be transferred to or from the sample within the second segment B. In this manner, a biological or chemical reaction involving the sample may be carried out in the second segment B. The sensor 52 can be used to monitor the reaction during the reaction process.

Upon completion of the reaction, the sample can be moved into the third segment C of the sample vessel 16 by compressing the sample vessel 16 within the opening at the second processing station 44. Preferably, the compression member 22 of the first processing station 42 substantially flattens the first segment A of the sample vessel 16 to inhibit the sample from entering the first segment A. The sample can be analyzed in the third segment C of the sample vessel 16 at the third processing station 46.

A further embodiment of a device for processing a sample is illustrated in FIG. 4. The device 56 includes a processing unit 58 having a processing station 60 positioned along the opening 14. The processing station 60 includes a compression member 22 coupled to a driver 24 and adapted to compress a segment of the sample vessel 16 against a stationary member 26 within the opening 16. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the sample vessel 16 includes a pressure gate 32 that divides the sample vessel 16 into two segments, namely, a first segment A and a second segment B. The processing station 60 can operate to displace a selective quantity of the content from the second segment B of the sample vessel into the first segment A of the sample vessel. For example, a reagent can be introduced into the second segment B of the sample vessel 16. A quantity of reagent can be displaced from the second segment B into the first segment A of the sample vessel 16 to mix with the sample in the first segment A. Alternatively, the reagent can be introduced into the first segment A of the sample vessel 16 and a quantity of the sample can be displaced from the second segment B into the first segment A by the processing station 60. Thus, the first segment A of the sample vessel 16 can act as a reaction mixture chamber for the sample and the reagent. The reagent can be pre-packaged in the sample vessel 16 or can be introduced to the sample vessel 16 after the sample is introduced to the sample vessel 16. For example, the reagent can be introduced using a reagent injector cartridge, described below, that is included with the device.

Referring to FIG. 5, another embodiment of device for processing a sample is illustrated. The illustrated device 100 is a hand held system for processing a nucleic acid sample, preferably in an "insert and test" format in which a sample vessel containing a nucleic acid sample is inserted into the device 100 and processing results are produced by the device with minimal human intervention. The device 100 can include a housing 112 having an opening 114 for receiving a sample vessel 116 containing a sample for processing by the device 100. The opening 114 can be a tubular shaped opening, as illustrated in FIG. 5, or can be an open-faced slot or other structure for receiving the sample vessel in a removable and replaceable manner. A control panel 118 is located on the top of the housing 112 for inputting information to the device 100 and a monitor 120 is provided for displaying operating information, such as the results of processing. An external communication port 121 can be located on the housing 112 for receiving information or outputting information, such as the results of processing and remote diagnosing of the system, to a remote system, such as a computer network. A battery 123 (FIG. 7) can be located within the housing to provide electrical power to the components of the device 100.

A multi-sample device 200 for processing multiple samples is illustrated in FIG. 6. The device 200 is a bench top thermal cycling system for processing up to 96 nucleic acid samples simultaneously. The sample processing device 200 operates on the same principals as the sample processing device 100 illustrated in FIG. 5, except that the multi-sample device 200 provides increased capacity and throughput. The multi-sample processing device 200 can include a housing 202 having a plurality of wells or openings 204, with each well being capable of receiving a sample vessel 206 containing a sample for processing by the device. The exemplary multi-sample device 200 illustrated in FIG. 6 has ninety-six wells for treating up to 96 samples simultaneously. One skilled in the art will appreciate that a multi-sample processing device according to the present invention may be designed with any number of wells, depending on the sample being tested and the processes being employed, without departing from the scope of the present invention. A control panel 208 is located on the top of the housing 202 for inputting information to the multi-sample processing device 200 and a monitor 210 is provided for displaying operating information, such as the results of testing.

FIG. 7 illustrates the general components of the sample processing device 100 illustrated in FIG. 5. The illustrated device 100 includes three primary processing units for processing a sample within the sample vessel, namely, a pretreatment unit 122 for pretreating the sample, a reaction unit 124 for amplifying certain components of the sample, and an analysis unit 126 for analyzing the sample. The sample vessel can be loaded into the device 100 through the opening 114. The processing units of the device are preferably arranged along the axis of elongation of the opening 114. This arrangement allows the sample to be moved within the sample vessel between the processing units of the device 10