Including Manufacture Or Preparation (e.g., Molding, Gelation, Etc.) Patents (Class 204/470)
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Publication number: 20150122652Abstract: Nanocomposite polymeric hydrogels comprising polyacrylamide (PAAm) formulated in combination with magnetically-susceptible anisotropic microparticles are described, as are method of making and using said hydrogels.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2012Publication date: May 7, 2015Applicant: Tennessee Technological UniversityInventors: Jeffrey W. Thompson, Holly Stretz, Pedro E. Arce
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Patent number: 8945360Abstract: Polyacrylamide gels that offer high resolution as electrophoretic media for protein separations and an improved resistance to hydrolysis upon storage are made by including either taurine, asparagine, or both as an ampholyte, in combination with either tris(hydroxymethyl)-aminomethane or bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino-tris(hydroxymethyl)methane as a buffer, plus other conventional components.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2010Date of Patent: February 3, 2015Assignee: Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: Shane Petersen, Cory Panattoni, Craig Rowell
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Patent number: 8865474Abstract: An automated laboratory system and method allow high-throughput and fully automated processing of materials, such as liquids including genetic materials. The invention includes a variety of aspects that may be combined into a single system. For example, processing may be performed by a plurality of robotic-equipped modular stations, where each modular station has its own unique environment in which processes are performed. Transport devices, such as conveyor belts, may move objects between modular stations, saving movement for robots in the modular stations. Gels used for gel electrophoresis may be extruded, thus decreasing the time needed to form such gels. Robotically-operated well forming tools allow wells to be formed in gels in a registered and accurate way.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2006Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: Protedyne CorporationInventors: Michael Paschetto, Peter Massaro, Jeff Boot, David Wilson
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Publication number: 20140299474Abstract: A system of controlled translocation of macromolecules by gel electrophesis employs a funnel nanopore structure. A graphene portion is attached to a porous material layer including funnel-shaped pores such that the graphene portion blocks the side of the porous material layer having openings for smaller pores. A pair of electrical contacts is formed on the graphene portion. A dielectric material layer may be deposited to hold the graphene portion in place. A nanoscale hole is formed through the dielectric material layer and the graphene portion to provide a smallest opening in a funnel nanopore structure. The funnel nanopore structure is placed within a capsule configured for gel electrophoresis. A linear chain of molecules can pass through a funnel-shaped pore and the nanoscale hole during the gel electrophoresis. A graphene nanopore detector allows measurement of blockage current for sufficient resolution of base pairs in DNA's.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2013Publication date: October 9, 2014Applicant: International Business Machines CorporationInventor: George F. Walker
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Publication number: 20140262785Abstract: Hand cast gels, and solutions for their preparation, are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: Lei Li, Xuemei Yang, Christopher Belisle
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Patent number: 8747637Abstract: The invention relates to compositions and methods of using electrophoresis separation matrices. The invention provides nano-particle comprising separation matrices having increased conductivity at low voltage.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2008Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Inventors: Shantanu Bhattacharya, Shubhra Gangopadhyay, Keshab Gangopedhyay, Nripen Chanda, Paul Sharp
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Publication number: 20140076727Abstract: A solution ejecting method includes a first ejection step of ejecting an electrophoresis-gel-forming monomer solution containing at least a monomer that forms a gel structure and a gel polymerization accelerator that activates a gel polymerization initiator and a second ejection step of ejecting a gel polymerization initiating solution containing the gel polymerization initiator onto the electrophoresis-gel-forming monomer solution.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2012Publication date: March 20, 2014Inventors: Hiroshi Ohki, Hiroshi Yamaki, Yutaka Unuma, Yuji Maruo, Tsuyoshi Tanaka
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Patent number: 8623192Abstract: Exemplary embodiments provide systems and methods for concentrating, focusing and/or separating proteins using nanofluidic channels and/or their arrays. In embodiments, low-abundance proteins can be focused and separated with high resolution using separation techniques including isoelectric focusing (IEF), and/or dynamic field gradient focusing (DFGF) in combination with nanofluidic channels and/or multi-gate nanofluidic field-effect-transistors (FETs).Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2009Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: STC.UNMInventors: Sang M. Han, Youn-Jin Oh, Cornelius Ivory
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Patent number: 8591713Abstract: A pre-packaged electrophoresis cassette (1), the cassette (1) comprising a gel layer (2) and a buffer solution layer (3), the gel layer comprising a first polymer made from a monomer and a cross-linker, and being in contact with the buffer solution layer to form a gel-buffer interface (4) for receiving a sample which is to undergo electrophoresis. The gel and/or the buffer solution are such that absorption of water by the gel layer from the buffer solution layer is inhibited, thereby maintaining the performance capabilities of the electrophoresis cassette during storage.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2009Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Kenneth G. Macnamara, Jim Elliott
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Patent number: 8540859Abstract: A technical measure for gel electrophoresis shaping that can make the gel electrophoresis generate no bubbles including in the gel, and can make a gradient gel being more accurate and more stable in quality. When liquid gel enters a collecting trough under continuous driving of a roller in the collecting trough to be injected into a carrier sheet set from a gel output port and a narrow seam, former injected liquid gel can be pushed upwards by latter injected liquid gel, and an accomplished product of gel can be obtained. If the collecting trough is input with two liquid basic materials, the liquid gel continuously output into the carrier sheet set can have a gradient.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2012Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Assignee: Wealtec Bioscience Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hui-Wan Chen
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Patent number: 8398838Abstract: A technical measure for gel electrophoresis shaping that can make the gel electrophoresis generate no bubbles including in the gel, and can make a gradient gel being more accurate and more stable in quality. When liquid gel enters a collecting trough under continuous driving of a roller in the collecting trough to be injected into a carrier sheet set from a gel output port and a narrow seam, former injected liquid gel can be pushed upwards by latter injected liquid gel, and an accomplished product of gel can be obtained. If the collecting trough is input with two liquid basic materials, the liquid gel continuously output into the carrier sheet set can have a gradient.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2008Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Wealtec Bioscience Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hui-Wan Chen
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Publication number: 20120269218Abstract: In one embodiment, a method for electrophoretic deposition of a three-dimensionally patterned green body includes suspending a first material in a gelling agent above a patterned electrode of an electrophoretic deposition (EPD) chamber, and gelling the suspension while applying a first electric field to the suspension to cause desired patterning of the first material in a resulting gelation. In another embodiment, a ceramic, metal, or cermet includes a plurality of layers, wherein each layer includes a gradient in composition, microstructure, and/or density in an x-y plane oriented parallel to a plane of deposition of the plurality of layers along a predetermined distance in a z-direction perpendicular to the plane of deposition.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2012Publication date: October 25, 2012Applicant: LAWRENCE LIVERMORE NATIONAL SECURITY, LLCInventors: Marcus A. Worsley, Joshua D. Kuntz, Klint A. Rose
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Publication number: 20120160684Abstract: The invention provides dry compositions for preparing and loading a sample on a gel for electrophoretic separation. The dry compositions preferably include a tracking dye and a sedimenting agent selected from a five-carbon polyol (e.g., ribitol, arabitol, or xylitol), iso-erythritol, maltitol, and saccharine. Methods for making and using, as well as kits comprising the disclosed compositions, are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 27, 2010Publication date: June 28, 2012Inventors: Mark N. Brolaski, Vince Moroney, Suzanne Kennedy
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Patent number: 8177950Abstract: Disclosed are thermoresponsive microparticle composite hydrogels comprising poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) and polyacrylamide, and methods regarding their manufacture and their use. The present invention provides in one aspect a thermoresponsive microparticle hydrogel, wherein the matrix morphology is controllably and selectively altered by incorporation of thermoresponsive nano/micro-particles. The particles are preferably poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) particles. The present invention also provides methods of making and using such hydrogels.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2008Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: Tennessee Technological UniversityInventors: Jeffery W. Thompson, Holly Stretz, Pedro E. Arce
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Publication number: 20120006682Abstract: A nucleic acid concentration recovery cartridge includes a substrate, a channel with which the substrate is provided to permit introduction of a liquid therein, a high molecular gel arranged in the channel at a predetermined position thereof, and a cathode and anode arranged at opposite ends of the channel, respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2011Publication date: January 12, 2012Applicant: SONY CORPORATIONInventor: Tomohiko Nakamura
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Patent number: 8007646Abstract: The mechanism of the UV light-induced reaction between the indole moiety of tryptophan and chloroform, and the structure of the modified tryptophan and polypeptides including such modified tryptophan residues. The excited indole moiety, which is formed upon UV light irradiation, emits a solvated electron which initiates a series of events that yield fluorescent derivatives that have CHO group covalently bound to the indole moiety. These derivatives are herein referred to as formyltryptophan, and are relatively stable. Similar reactions are observed when 5-hydroxytryptophan, 5-fluorotryptophan, or N-methylindolacetate are used in place of tryptophan, or when other haloalkanes, such as trichloracetic acid, trichlorethanol, trichlorethane, bromoform, and iodoactetate are used in place of chloroform. The derivatives can be used in a variety of applications in fluorescence spectroscopy, and for nuclear magnetic resonance, X-ray crystallography, infra-red spectroscopy, circular dicroism and mass spectroscopy.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2009Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignees: Univeristy Technologies International Inc., Montana State UniversityInventors: Robert A. Edwards, Raymond J. Turner, Carol Ladner, Jean Starkey, Eric Larson, Dmitri Kazmin
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Patent number: 7971848Abstract: An In-Situ gel casting machine comprising a gel casting stand (1), a rubber cushion (2), and a locking base (3). Overlapping a notched glass (121) with a glass plate (122) tightly together will form a gel room (123), it is called as the slab gel casting mold (12). Put the same two slab gel casting molds (12) into each side of the portable casting stand (11) along its insides, and then insert the wedge frames (13) against each slab gel casting mold (12), which will form the gel-casting stand (1). Because each sidewall locking structure (32) of the locking base (3) compresses the slab gel casting molds from two directions, it ensures that the slab gel casting molds are sealed well. Without moving the slab gel casting molds, an electrophoresis experiment can be started right after the gel has been solidified, which can avoid the leakage of the gel solution and the production of air bubbles into the slab gel casting molds.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2007Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Inventors: Xiaoqiang Qi, Xiudong Gao, Shidong Wang, Cunlu Dong
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Publication number: 20110114488Abstract: The present invention relates to electrophoresis and in particular low fluorescent electrophoretic supports for hydrogels used for separation of fluorescence labelled biomolecules. More particularly, the invention relates to use of a polymer having the following formula: wherein n=0-100 000 m=0-100 000 R1, R2, R3 and R4=H, F, Cl, Br, I, methyl groups or non-aromatic hydrocarbon chains (optionally containing branches or cyclic structures) such as ethyl, ethenyl, propyl, isopropyl, propenyl, butyl, branched butyl, butenyl, cyclobutyl, pentyl, branched pentyl, pentenyl, cyclopentyl, hexyl, branched hexyl, cyclohexyl; X, Y=methylene groups or non-aromatic hydrocarbon chains (optionally containing branches or cyclic structures) such as ethylene, ethenylene, propylene, isopropylene, propenylene, butylene, branched butylene, butenylene; Y can optionally be absent as a low fluorescent support film of an electrophoretic hydrogel for slab gel electrophoresis.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2011Publication date: May 19, 2011Applicant: GE HEALTHCARE BIO-SCIENCES ABInventors: ANDERS LARSSON, RONNIE PALMGREN, SOFIA SÖDERBERG
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Publication number: 20110031120Abstract: A gel composition for use in electrophoresis analysis of proteins, characterised in that the gel composition includes a polar solvent as an additive, wherein the polar solvent is one of either an alcohol or a formamide derivative. Methods of use, methods of manufacture and apparatus including the gel composition described hereinabove are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2009Publication date: February 10, 2011Applicant: LAB 901 LIMITEDInventors: Adam Inche, Helen McNeill, Kenneth Macnamara
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Patent number: 7854827Abstract: A device providing an arrangement for the separation of a sample mixture for analytical reasons based on multidimensional gel electrophoresis and method thereof are disclosed. The separation involves a first separation in a first dimension of the device on the basis of isoelectric points and a second separation in a second dimension of the device on the basis of molecular size. At least two gel strips for the first dimension separation step and a corresponding gel for the second dimension separation step are provided. The two gel strips are arranged on a single carrier either on the same side or on opposite sides. By having at least two gel strips arranged in such a manner at least two analytical processes can be executed in parallel on the single carrier without the use of valves.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2006Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.Inventor: Mario Curcio
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Publication number: 20100264031Abstract: Provided is a precast polyacrylamide gel for use in gel electrophoresis, having a shelf-life of at least 12 months. The gel comprises a sulfonated tertiary or secondary amine having a pKa of 6.6-8.0, ampholytes exhibiting pI between 5.4 to 6.4, Tris, and hydrochloric acid to adjust the pH to between 5.5 and 7.5.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2008Publication date: October 21, 2010Applicant: GENE BIO-APPLICATION LTD.Inventors: Farhat Osman, Yitzhak Ben-Asouli
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Patent number: 7811437Abstract: A series of low molarity conductive media based on non-buffering univalent cations, such as sodium chloride-sodium acetate (SCA), sodium boric acid (SB), lithium boric acid, and lithium acetate mitigate the “runaway” positive feedback heating loop produced by conventional media containing biological amine buffers and permit improved DNA electrophoresis under the conditions of low salt concentration. These media serve well in ultra-fast DNA electrophoresis and in high-resolution separations of RNA and DNA fragments.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2006Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Faster Better Media LLCInventors: Scott E. Kern, Jonathan R. Brody
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Patent number: 7799194Abstract: The invention relates to a method of preparing a gel for use in electrophoresis, which method comprises: (a) providing a mixture comprising a solvent, agarose or a derivative thereof, one or more vinyl monomers, and a polymerisation initiator, the initiator forming a redox system with agarose or the derivative thereof; (b) exposing the mixture to polymerisation conditions to graft-polymerise the one or more monomers onto the agarose or derivative thereof; and (c) allowing the mixture to form a gel.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2004Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Fermentas UABInventor: Ricardas Makuska
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Patent number: 7794576Abstract: An electrophoresis gel matrix is provided for conducting proteomics, in particular the steps of separating and/or identifying proteins. The matrix comprises at least one chemical reagent being at least one of a denaturing, buffering, disaggregating, reducing, staining or dissolving reagent, and a volume of dimethylsulfoxide. The use of such a matrix, which is provided to be filled into an electrophoresis capillary being part of a microfluidic device for carrying out proteomics, leads to an enhanced resolution of proteins. The matrix is prepared adding a volume of dimethylsulfoxide ranging from 4% to 15%, preferably from 5% to 10%, most preferably from 6% to 8% with respect to the total volume of chemical reagents being comprised in the matrix. A method is provided for preparation of the matrix for conducting proteomics and a method is conducted to carry out proteomics by the use of this matrix.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2005Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Andreas Ruefer, Martin Kratzmeier
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Publication number: 20100213065Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and devices for forming a plurality of wells on a gel containing an analyte. The invention further provides a system for eluting a liquid analyte reagent mixture from a gel. The invention is useful in the separation of biological molecules such as nucleic acids, carbohydrates, proteins and peptides. In particular, the invention has utility for separating and eluting peptides from isoelectric focusing gels.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2006Publication date: August 26, 2010Applicant: GE HEALTHCARE BIO-SCIENCES ABInventors: Jonas Astrom, Bengt Bjellqvist
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Publication number: 20100187114Abstract: Polyacrylamide gels that offer high resolution as electrophoretic media for protein separations and an improved resistance to hydrolysis upon storage are made by including either taurine, asparagine, or both as an ampholyte, in combination with either tris(hydroxymethyl)-aminomethane or bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino-tris(hydroxymethyl)methane as a buffer, plus other conventional components.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2010Publication date: July 29, 2010Applicant: BIO-RAD LABORATORIES, INC.Inventors: Shane Petersen, Cory Panattoni, Craig Rowell
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Publication number: 20100089753Abstract: The mechanism of the UV light-induced reaction between the indole moiety of tryptophan and chloroform, and the structure of the modified tryptophan and polypeptides including such modified tryptophan residues. The excited indole moiety, which is formed upon UV light irradiation, emits a solvated electron which initiates a series of events that yield fluorescent derivatives that have CHO group covalently bound to the indole moiety. These derivatives are herein referred to as formyltryptophan, and are relatively stable. Similar reactions are observed when 5-hydroxytryptophan, 5-fluorotryptophan, or N-methylindolacetate are used in place of tryptophan, or when other haloalkanes, such as trichloracetic acid, trichlorethanol, trichlorethane, bromoform, and iodoactetate are used in place of chloroform. The derivatives can be used in a variety of applications in fluorescence spectroscopy, and for nuclear magnetic resonance, X-ray crystallography, infra-red spectroscopy, circular dicroism and mass spectroscopy.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2009Publication date: April 15, 2010Inventors: Robert A. Edwards, Raymond J. Turner, Carol Ladner, Jean Starkey, Eric Larson, Dmitri Kazmin
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Patent number: 7658827Abstract: Flat plates serving as molds and enclosures for slab gels are held together by a clamping frame in which the side edges of the plates slide into facing channels and are clamped by lever-operated cams that compress the channel walls against the plate surfaces. The joined plates are held on a vertical support rack containing a finger-operated spring-loaded notched clamp that presses down on the plates to seal the opening at the bottom edges of the plates against a gasket. A well-forming comb for insertion between the plates contains flexible outwardly angled fingers to seal against the spacers between the plates.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2006Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: Evelio Perez, George Fernwood
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Patent number: 7569130Abstract: The mechanism of the UV light-induced reaction between the indole moiety of tryptophan and chloroform, and the structure of the modified tryptophan and polypeptides including such modified tryptophan residues. The excited indole moiety, which is formed upon UV light irradiation, emits a solvated electron which initiates a series of events that yield fluorescent derivatives that have CHO group covalently bound to the indole moiety. These derivatives are herein referred to as formyltryptophan, and are relatively stable. Similar reactions are observed when 5-hydroxytryptophan, 5-fluorotryptophan, or N-methylindolacetate are used in place of tryptophan, or when other haloalkanes, such as trichloracetic acid, trichlorethanol, trichlorethane, bromoform, and iodoactetate are used in place of chloroform. The derivatives can be used in a variety of applications in fluorescence spectroscopy, and for nuclear magnetic resonance, X-ray crystallography, infra-red spectroscopy, circular dicroism and mass spectroscopy.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2003Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignees: University Tecnologies International Inc., Montana State UniversityInventors: Robert A. Edwards, Raymond J. Turner, Carol Ladner, Jean Starkey, Eric Larson, Dmitri Kazmin
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Publication number: 20090127116Abstract: Disclosed are thermoresponsive microparticle composite hydrogels comprising poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) and polyacrylamide, and methods regarding their manufacture and their use. The present invention provides in one aspect a thermoresponsive microparticle hydrogel, wherein the matrix morphology is controllably and selectively altered by incorporation of thermoresponsive nano/micro-particles. The particles are preferably poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) particles. The present invention also provides methods of making and using such hydrogels.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2008Publication date: May 21, 2009Applicant: TENNESSEE TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITYInventors: Jeffery Wayne THOMPSON, Holly A. STRETZ, Pedro E. Arce
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Patent number: 7531073Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to novel polymeric materials for use in the electrophoretic separation of nucleic acids. In particular, the novel polymer materials are sparsely crosslinked nanogels, dissolved in an aqueous buffer to form solutions with moderate to high viscosity. The present invention further provides methods for generating such novel polymers, and related methods of their use.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2008Date of Patent: May 12, 2009Assignee: Northwestern UniversityInventors: Annelise Barron, Erin Doherty
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Publication number: 20090014333Abstract: The invention relates to compositions and methods of using electrophoresis separation matrices. The invention provides nano-particle comprising separation matrices having increased conductivity at low voltage.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2008Publication date: January 15, 2009Applicant: The Curators of the University of MissouriInventors: Shantanu Bhattacharya, Shubhra Gangopadhyay, Keshab Gangopadhyay, Nripen Chanda, Paul Sharp
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Patent number: 7399396Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to novel polymeric mateirals for use in the electrophoretic separation of nucleic acids. In particular, the novel polymer materials are sparsely crosslinked nanogels, dissolved in an aqueous buffer to form solutions with moderate to high viscosity. The present invention further provides methods for generating such novel polymers, and related methods of their use.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2005Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignee: Northwestern UniversityInventors: Annelise Barron, Erin Doherty
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Patent number: 7323092Abstract: While the present invention has been described in conjunction with a preferred embodiment, one of ordinary skill, after reading the foregoing specification, will be able to effect various changes, substitutions of equivalents, and other alterations to the compositions and methods set forth herein. It is therefore intended that the protection granted by Letters Patent hereon be limited only by the definitions contained in the appended claims and equivalents thereof.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2003Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Northeastern UniversityInventors: Barry L. Karger, Lev Kotler, Frantisek Foret, Marek Minarik, Karel Kleparnik
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Patent number: 7320747Abstract: The present invention is directed to a solidified hybrid gel for use in an electrophoresis process, having a solidified first gel portion juxtaposed with a solidified second gel portion. The first gel portion is capable of accommodating therein one or more samples for electrophoresis after said first gel portion is in solidified form, and the second gel portion is adapted for enabling an electrophoresis process to be applied to such a sample that may be accommodated in said first gel portion. Thus, the hybrid gel may be provided in a precast form to users, ready for use. The invention is also directed to methods for providing such a gel, apparatuses for accommodating such a gel, and methods for carrying out electrophoresis on a sample comprised in such a gel.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2006Date of Patent: January 22, 2008Assignee: Gene Bio-Application Ltd.Inventors: Yitzhak Ben-Asouli, Farhat Osman
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Patent number: 7163610Abstract: A series of low molarity conductive media based on non-buffering univalent cations, such as sodium chloride-sodium acetate (SCA), sodium boric acid (SB), lithium boric acid, and lithium acetate mitigate the “runaway” positive feedback heating loop produced by conventional media containing biological amine buffers and permit improved DNA electrophoresis under the conditions of low salt concentration. These media serve well in ultra-fast DNA electrophoresis and in high-resolution separations of RNA and DNA fragments.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2004Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Faster Better Media LLCInventors: Scott E. Kern, Jonathan R. Brody
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Patent number: 7128819Abstract: Flat plates serving as molds and enclosures for slab gels are held together by a clamping frame in which the side edges of the plates slide into facing channels and are clamped by lever-operated cams that compress the channel walls against the plate surfaces. The joined plates are held on a vertical support rack containing a finger-operated spring-loaded notched clamp that presses down on the plates to seal the opening at the bottom edges of the plates against a gasket. A well-forming comb for insertion between the plates contains flexible outwardly angled fingers to seal against the spacers between the plates.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2004Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Assignee: Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: Evelio Perez, George Fernwood
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Patent number: 7118900Abstract: The present invention relates to a systematic process for the creation of functionally organized, spatially patterned assemblies of polymer-microparticle composites including the AC electric field-mediated assembly of patterned, self-supporting organic (polymeric) films and organic-polymer-microparticle composites of tailored composition and morphology. The present invention further relates to the incorporation of said assemblies into other structures. The present invention also relates to the application of such functional assemblies in materials science and biology. Additional areas of application include sensors, catalysts, membranes, and micro-reactors, and miniaturized format for generation of multifunctional thin films. This invention also provides simple methods and apparatus for synthesizing thin films of tailored composition and morphology.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2002Date of Patent: October 10, 2006Assignee: BioArray Solutions Ltd.Inventors: Michael Seul, Sukanta Banerjee, Kairali Podual, Ye Hong
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Patent number: 7056426Abstract: In pre-cast slab gel cassettes, the formation of pathways in which proteins can migrate between the gel and the walls of the cassette to form shadow bands is avoided by including a nonionic amphiphilic polymer in the monomer solution from which the gel is formed and casting the gel with the polymer included. The nonionic amphiphilic polymer also prevents the resulting gel from sticking to the walls when the gel is to be removed from the cassette after electrophoresis.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2003Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Assignee: Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.Inventor: Cory M. Panattoni
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Patent number: 7052590Abstract: A method for the manufacture of a separation gel, which comprises the steps: (i) providing a polymerization mixture containing a first monomer (I) having a polymerizable unsaturated structure and a second monomer (II) comprising two or more polymerizable unsaturated structures and an initiator, and (ii) polymerizing the mixture. The method is characterized in that monomer (I) is an N-vinyl carboxamide; and that (a) the initiating system for the polymerization comprises a UV photoinitiator and polymerization is initiated by UV irradiating the mixture at a wave-length appropriate for the initiator, and/or (b) preselecting monomer (I) and monomer (II) to have comparable reactivities to become incorporated into the growing polymer. A kit for use in the production of an electrophoretic gel is also described.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2000Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: GE Healthcare Bio-Sciences ABInventors: Lena Stigh, Ronnie Palmgren
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Patent number: 6986836Abstract: An electrophoresis gel is prepared with indicia incorporated into the gel itself rather than on a label or backing that is adhered to the gel. According to one method, the indicia are applied by first coating a solid surface that will be used as one internal surface of a gel mold with a solution of a water-permeable polymer, allowing the coating to dry, imprinting indicia in ink on the dry coating, and then forming the gel over the coating. In a variation on this method, the indicia are applied to a sheet which is then placed against the mold surface, the sheet being either a liner that is separable from the gel yet coated with the polymer or a sheet of the polymer itself. Alternatively, the indicia are printed directly on the mold surface without first coating the surface. This is achieved by using as a printing composition a mixture of an ink and a solution of a water-permeable polymer, then forming the gel over the imprinted indicia.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2003Date of Patent: January 17, 2006Assignee: Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: Cory M. Panattoni, Donald E. Gueffroy, Roger S. Provost
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Patent number: 6942775Abstract: A plugging medium is used to block the bottom opening of cassettes for vertical electrophoresis in order to facilitate filling the cassettes with separation media. Cassettes can be filled within a vertical electrophoresis system in which electrophoresis is conducted without further manipulation of the cassettes. The system includes a frame assembly mounted on a base containing a basin for plugging solution. The cassette is mounted to the frame assembly in a substantially vertical position such that a bottom opening of the empty cassette resides below the rim of the basin. The plugging solution (e.g. agarose gel) forms a plug within the bottom of the cassette to contain the separation medium.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2002Date of Patent: September 13, 2005Assignee: Owl Separation Systems, Inc.Inventor: Gregory S. Fox
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Patent number: 6846399Abstract: A polymer material useful as the porous dielectric medium for microfluidic devices generally and electrokinetic pumps in particular. The polymer material is produced from an inverse (water-in-oil) emulsion that creates a 3-dimensional network characterized by small pores and high internal volume, characteristics that are particularly desirable for the dielectric medium for electrokinetic pumps. Further, the material can be cast-to-shape inside a microchannel. The use of bifunctional monomers provides for charge density within the polymer structure sufficient to support electroosmotic flow. The 3-dimensional polymeric material can also be covalently bound to the channel walls thereby making it suitable for high-pressure applications.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2001Date of Patent: January 25, 2005Assignee: Sandia National LaboratoriesInventors: Timothy J. Shepodd, Leroy Whinnery, Jr., William R. Even, Jr.
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Patent number: 6841055Abstract: A method of preparing an electrophoretic support comprising washing of at least a portion of the surface of a silicon-containing support member supporting an electrophoretic matrix with a weak alkali solution and supporting of said matrix by said support member; an electrophoretic gel comprising a polyacrylamide polymer obtained by polymerizing acrylamide or a derivative thereof in the presence of two or more polar organic solvents; a method of electrophoresis employing a gel prepared by said preparation method; and a method of electrophoresis employing said electrophoretic gel.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2001Date of Patent: January 11, 2005Assignee: RikenInventor: Yoshihide Hayashizaki
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Publication number: 20040195102Abstract: An electrophoresis gel is prepared with indicia incorporated into the gel itself rather than on a label or backing that is adhered to the gel. According to one method, the indicia are applied by first coating a solid surface that will be used as one internal surface of a gel mold with a solution of a water-permeable polymer, allowing the coating to dry, imprinting indicia in ink on the dry coating, and then forming the gel over the coating. In a variation on this method, the indicia are applied to a sheet which is then placed against the mold surface, the sheet being either a liner that is separable from the gel yet coated with the polymer or a sheet of the polymer itself. Alternatively, the indicia are printed directly on the mold surface without first coating the surface. This is achieved by using as a printing composition a mixture of an ink and a solution of a water-permeable polymer, then forming the gel over the imprinted indicia.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2003Publication date: October 7, 2004Applicant: BIO-RAD LABORATORIES, INC. a corporation of the state of DelawareInventors: Cory M. Panattoni, Donald E. Gueffroy, Roger S. Provost
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Publication number: 20040140214Abstract: In pre-cast slab gel cassettes, the formation of pathways in which proteins can migrate between the gel and the walls of the cassette to form shadow bands is avoided by including a nonionic amphiphilic polymer in the monomer solution from which the gel is formed and casting the gel with the polymer included. The nonionic amphiphilic polymer also prevents the resulting gel from sticking to the walls when the gel is to be removed from the cassette after electrophoresis.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2003Publication date: July 22, 2004Applicant: BIO-RAD LABORATORIES, INC., a corporation of the state of DelawareInventor: Cory M. Panattoni
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Publication number: 20040124083Abstract: A device and a method for casting 50 gels at once in a single gel mold are provided. Gel solution is poured into a single gel mold, solidified into a gel block, and served as monthly gel supply of electrophoresis. For each application, a gel piece is easily sliced off from the gel block and ready for sample loading.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 31, 2002Publication date: July 1, 2004Inventor: Sephen L. Chen
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Patent number: 6733647Abstract: A polyacrylamide gel utilizing a buffer system comprising Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane at the concentration range 0.15 to 0.25 M titrated with hydrochloric acid to a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. The gel is substantially stable to polyacrylamide hydrolysis during storage for at extended periods and has an acceptable shelf-life of at least 6 months after storage at about 4° C.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2001Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Assignee: Gradipore, Ltd.Inventors: Grace Yim Ngan Chan, Nicola Sarah Frances Boyd, Sue Ann Gooley, David Henry Solomon
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Publication number: 20040079641Abstract: A gel mold for electrophoresis is constructed by binding a front film and a rear film onto the opposing faces of a frame of U-shape or four-sided shape. Said front film, rear film, and frame bend to the same direction with the same degree of curvature to form a curved chamber wherein an electrophoresis gel is prepared. There are a first opening on the top of said chamber and a second opening(s) on the bottom of said chamber for conducting electricity. Said gel mold is structurally stable due to the curved structure and is more efficient in heat dissipation due to the thin film, resulting in shorter run time, less waste, and better resolution.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2003Publication date: April 29, 2004Inventor: Qi-Feng Ma
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Publication number: 20040020775Abstract: A solidified hybrid gel for use in an electrophoresis process that has a solidified first gel portion juxtaposed with a solidified second gel portion. The first gel portion is capable of accommodating therein one or more samples for electrophoresis after said first gel portion is in solidified form, and the second gel portion is adapted for enabling an electrophoresis process to be applied to such a sample that may be accommodated in said first gel portion. Thus, the hybrid gel may be provided in a precast form to users, ready for use. The invention is also directed to methods for providing such a gel, apparatuses for accommodating such a gel, and methods for carrying out electrophoresis on a sample comprised in such a gel.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2003Publication date: February 5, 2004Inventors: Yitzhak Ben-Asouli, Farhat Osman