Abstract: A method of separating foetal trophoblasts from maternal blood comprises using a filter by applying a sample of maternal blood to the filter. The filter is configured to permit the passage of maternal blood cells and the entrapment of foetal trophoblasts. The maternal blood cells of the blood are drawn through the filter. Vacuum may be applied to the filter to draw the maternal blood cells of the blood through the filter. The sample of maternal blood is applied to one site of the filter and vacuum is applied to the opposite side of the filter, thereby drawing the maternal blood through the filter and leaving the foetal trophoblasts trapped on the filter. Thereafter, the foetal trophoblasts can be released from the filter. The filter may be a filter which has been pre-treated to prevent adherence of entrapped foetal trophoblasts to the filter. Specifically, the filter may be gel coated.

Abstract: A body fluid separation device which includes at least one first chamber, a cooperating filter extending across the or each first chamber and at least one second chamber respectively to cooperate with the at least one first chamber characterized in that one or both of the first and second chambers has a connection to vacuum, positioned to one or both sides of the filter and there being a removable closure in the form of end caps at the end of each chamber, wherein the body fluid separation device is disposable.