Abstract: In order to avoid problems caused by baseline drift, it is expedient in a method of an embodiment of the present application not to measure a signal rise in a detection space, but to allow a certain time period to elapse in order to enrich a detectable product (enrichment phase), then to measure a first detection signal, and to measure the baseline signal as second detection signal only after rinsing out the detection space and removing the enriched product. In at least one embodiment, the enriched product is not detected from a signal rise with reference to a baseline, but from a signal difference of first and second detection signals.

Abstract: The single nucleotide polymorphism analysis involves the utilization of a DNA hybridization as well as the use of a DNA chip. A liquid DNA sample to be analyzed is guided over a DNA chip in a defined time course. After successful hybridization, the temperature is modified in a defined manner under low stringency conditions do that scavenger/target DNA hybrids are melted, whereby the melting of the scavenger/target DNA hybrids is detected and evaluated according to the temperature. In addition to the DNA chip, at least one device is provided for controlling or regulating temperature, and a device is provided for the lateral flowing against of the surface of the DNA chip. Factors for matching hybrids and mismatching/single point mismatching hybrids can be detected and evaluated using appropriate measuring device(s).

Abstract: At least one embodiment of the invention relates to an arrangement for thermocyclisation of a substance. At least one embodiment of the invention also relates to a method for the thermocyclisation of a substance, including: the controllable valves automatically close the PCR chamber after the test fluid has been introduced into the PCR-chamber, and the properties for the memory metal or bimetal elements are used for closing the valves when a predetermined temperature has been exceeded. As a result, the mechanical actuator, which is used to actuate the valves, is thermally coupled to the heating/cooling element in order to carry out the thermocyclisation.

Abstract: Embodiments generally relate to a PCR wherein a magnetic field is focused in a localised area and also to the possibility of a cyclic transfer of heat. According to at least one embodiment of the invention, a magnetic field gradient is constructed along the direction of flow and the transfer of heat is carried out in a manner perpendicular to the direction of flow. Suitable things are provided therefore. The magnetic field is, in particular, focused by Mumetal® which is arranged on both sides of the flow channel and the temperature is controlled by way of Peltier elements, cooling bodies, and thermal coupling plates.

Abstract: A DNA isolation method by removal of constituents, interfering with a subsequent PCR is disclosed. According to an embodiment of the method, all substances and method steps are fully integrated into a closed unit (cartridge) for single use, which allows entry of a DNA-containing sample and DNA-binding substrates are used for isolating the released DNA. In particular, when the method is applied to DNA isolation from whole blood by disruption of white blood cells, the reagents, required for carrying out the cell disruption and other reactions, are stored in a form which is stable at room temperature. For disrupting the white blood cells and for DNA isolation, a dry stored lysis reagent is dissolved in an aqueous solution and brought into contact with the white blood cells.

Abstract: Solid matter in a cavity is used to produce a solution of at least one solid matter in a solvent. The solid matter which is soluble in the solvent in initially covered and/or surrounded in the cavity by a medium which is insoluble in a solvent, such that dissolving of the solid matter is prevented. Subsequently the solvent is guided to the cavity and the medium which is insoluble in the solvent is treated in such a manner that contact is made between the solvent and the soluble solid matter, enabling the solid matter to dissolve in the solvent. Solutions including two or more solid matter can be produced in an advantageous manner.

Abstract: An intention is for liquids to be dispensed in a micro-grid pattern, i.e. at grid spacings of less than 1 mm. Either a single liquid at a plurality of spots or a plurality of different liquids are released to the substrate simultaneously from microcapillaries by way of a simultaneous capillary/liquid/substrate contact, but without capillary/substrate contact. In the associated apparatus, by way of a macro-head and individual macrocapillaries, which are arranged in a macro-grid pattern, the liquid is transferred, via a coupling location, into a dispensing head with microcapillaries. The macrocapillaries are coupled to the microcapillaries, which transfer the liquid into the micro-grid pattern.