Methods and apparatus for reference lab diagnostics

• Main Authors: CAHILL LINDA, O'NEILL ROGER
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 28.12.2006
• Subjects: INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIRCHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES; MEASURING; PHYSICS; TESTING

Automated protein assay apparatus and methods suitable for use in a reference lab are described. A screening test for a pathogen or disease condition is performed at the reference lab. If the results of the screening test are positive, a definitive assay is performed. One or more analytes are resolved in a fluid path such as that of a capillary by isoelectric focusing. The resolved analytes are immobilized in the capillary by photoimmobilization. A typical analyte is a protein of a biological sample of a subject. Detection agents such as antibodies are flowed through the capillary which bind to or interact with the analytes, forming antibody-protein complexes. A chemiluminescent substrate is flowed through the capillary and detected with a photon detector. The detected locations of the analytes are recorded and the results sent to the referring physician. The assay is preferably performed by a computer-controlled, automated system exhibiting speed, precision and repeatability which are highly desirable for a reference lab diagnostic test.