Abstract: A system for collecting and shipping a sample of nucleic acid, the system comprising a receptacle, a removable cap for the receptacle having a breather port and sample connection port, and a filter column removably attached to the inside of the receptacle cap in fluid communication with the sample connection port and containing a substrate for collecting the nucleic acid. A sample collection container interlocks to the sample collection port. A shipping container, closeable by a lid, is configured to detach the filter column from the receptacle cap and contain the column for shipping. Methods for collecting samples using the system preferably include a dehydrating wash step, such as with ethanol, and placement of a dessicant in the shipping container, so that nucleic acid samples can be transported under ambient, non-climate-controlled conditions, with stability for at least up to 4 weeks, ideal for collecting samples from undeveloped regions.

Abstract: A system for collecting biomolecules comprising an extractor assembly comprising a top cap, an extractor core, an extractor core adaptor, an extractor body having an internal volume, and a bottom cap ring. The top cap comprises a sample connection port and is configured to be secured to the extractor body by the bottom cap ring. The extractor core is adapted to be removably attached to a connection interface of the top cap and contains a substrate for collecting the biomolecules. The extractor core adaptor has an upstream open end for mating with the downstream end of the extractor core and a downstream protrusion configured to project through an opening in the extractor body. Methods for using the system to collect samples for transport and further processing to detect disease are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for detecting a target nucleic acid derived from a pathogen in a subject. The method comprises (a) amplifying the nucleic acid sequence of the target nucleic acid, which is obtained from a cell-free fraction of a blood sample from the subject, to produce a double stranded DNA is produced, and (b) detecting the double stranded DNA. The presence of the double stranded DNA indicates the presence of the target nucleic acid in the subject. Also provided are kits for detecting a target nucleic acid derived from a pathogen in a subject.

Abstract: A system for collecting biomolecules comprising an extractor assembly comprising a top cap, an extractor core, an extractor core adaptor, an extractor body having an internal volume, and a bottom cap ring. The top cap comprises a sample connection port and is configured to be secured to the extractor body by the bottom cap ring. The extractor core is adapted to be removably attached to a connection interface of the top cap and contains a substrate for collecting the biomolecules. The extractor core adaptor has an upstream open end for mating with the downstream end of the extractor core and a downstream protrusion configured to project through an opening in the extractor body. Methods for using the system to collect samples for transport and further processing to detect disease are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for detecting a target nucleic acid derived from a pathogen in a subject. The method comprises (a) amplifying the nucleic acid sequence of the target nucleic acid, which is obtained from a cell-free fraction of a blood sample from the subject, to produce a double stranded DNA is produced, and (b) detecting the double stranded DNA. The presence of the double stranded DNA indicates the presence of the target nucleic acid in the subject. Also provided are kits for detecting a target nucleic acid derived from a pathogen in a subject.

Abstract: A container for elongated objects, such as microtubes or vials, comprising a frame having a base and sides, a pair of rotatable opposing lid sections having at least two movement-resistant positions, and a rack with a plurality of holes or collars. The rack or interior bottom of the container may have features that discourage rotation of the microtubes or vials. The containers may further comprise microtubes or vials, which may be empty or filled with, for example, reagents, such as reagents for use in a predetermined process. A system of stackable carriers may be provided to hold and allow one-handed removal of a plurality of containers. The container may desirably permit one-handed opening and closing of the container and any vials contained therein, and the various lid positions may be suitable for submersion in an ice bath as well as standing upright on a laboratory bench.