Abstract: The present invention relates to a modification of the anion exchange chromatography step in a Factor IX purification process. By the modification the presence of the protease, plasma hyaluronan binding protease, is decreased which minimizes the cleavage of Factor IX and enhances the yield of Factor IX in the purification process.

Abstract: The present invention provides bioactive porous partition members for use in connection with studies or tests of the blood coagulation process, wherein the porous partition members have an aperture and have incorporated therein at least one agent capable of initiating blood coagulation or platelet aggregation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for indicating von Willebrand factor deficiency in a blood sample or platelet-rich plasma sample which exhibits abnormal platelet function comprising (a) adding a von Willebrand factor preparation to the sample, and (b) testing the sample for platelet function. In this method, the von Willebrand factor preparation restores normal platelet function and indicates that the sample initially lacked the von Willebrand factor. The von Willebrand factor preparation comprises purified von Willebrand factor. The invention also discloses a method which further comprises separating the blood sample into a plasma layer and cellular component layer and removing the plasma layer, prior to the step of adding a von Willebrand factor preparation to the sample. In this embodiment the von Willebrand factor preparation comprises platelet-poor plasma containing a normal level of von Willebrand factor.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel test cartridges for use in the assay of liquid samples and methods of carrying out such assays. These test cartridges are particularly useful in assays which include at least one step during which the sample to be assayed and one or more components of the assay system are kept separated by a pierceable member. The test cartridges comprise a housing through which the sample flows during the assay. The housing includes a holding chamber for holding the sample and a test chamber separated by a pierceable member having a cut therein. The test chamber further includes a partition member which has an opening therethrough and includes at least one reagent for the assay. A transfer member movably mounted in the test chamber can move towards and pierce the pierceable member by moving through the cut and contact the liquid sample in the holding chamber.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of using bioactive porous partition members for testing the blood coagulation process or platelet function, wherein the porous partition members have an aperture and have incorporated therein at least one agent capable of initiating blood coagulation or platelet aggregation.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel test cartridges for use in the assay of liquid samples and methods of carrying out such assays. These test cartridges are particularly useful in assays which include at least one step during which the sample to be assayed and one or more components of the assay system are kept separated by a pierceable member. The test cartridges comprise a housing through which the sample flows during the assay. The housing includes a holding chamber for holding the sample and a test chamber separated by a pierceable member. The test chamber further includes a partition member which has an opening therethrough and includes at least one reagent for the assay. A transfer member movably mounted in the test chamber can move towards and pierce the pierceable member and contact the liquid sample in the holding chamber.