Abstract: A device and method to provide a simplified wash process and controlled disintegration of a soft substance, such as a gel, are disclosed. In use, a block of, e.g., gel matrix is placed in the device and washed with a series of appropriate solutions to remove interfering contaminants. The washing liquid is removed through a deformable narrow opening in the bottom of the device, and, subsequently, the gel block is extruded through the deformable narrow opening, by a physical force, such as centrifugal force, a vacuum or positive pressure from a gas or liquid, etc., resulting in fragmentation of the gel block into a series of particles of similar size. The fragmentation of the gel results from shear forces exerted onto the gel block traveling through the deformable narrow opening in the device.

Abstract: A device and method to provide a simplified wash process and controlled disintegration of a soft substance, such as a gel, are disclosed. In use, a block of, e.g., gel matrix is placed in the device and washed with a series of appropriate solutions to remove interfering contaminants. The washing liquid is removed through a deformable narrow opening in the bottom of the device, and, subsequently, the gel block is extruded through the deformable narrow opening, by a physical force, such as centrifugal force, a vacuum or positive pressure from a gas or liquid, etc., resulting in fragmentation of the gel block into a series of particles of similar size. The fragmentation of the gel results from shear forces exerted onto the gel block traveling through the deformable narrow opening in the device.

Abstract: A sample load and injection device (10) includes sample introduction capillaries (11) attached to a microfluidic device (12). Sample introduction capillaries (11) are connected to sample introduction channels (18). Sample introduction capillaries (18) are connected to separation channels (20) at connection points (21). At a defined distance along the separation channels (20), auxilliary channels (23) originate at connection points (24). The sample load and injection device includes cover plate (28) which has connecting channels (26, 32). Connecting channel (26) is associated with ends (24) of sample introduction channels (18). Connecting channel (32) is associated with ends (20).

Abstract: A sample load and injection device (10) includes sample introduction capillaries (11) attached to a microfluidic device (12). Sample introduction capillaries (11) are connected to sample introduction channels (18). Sample introduction capillaries (18) are connected to separation channels (20) at connection points (21). At a defined distance along the separation channels (20), auxilliary channels (23) originate at connection points (24). The sample load and injection device includes cover plate (28) which has connecting channels (26, 32). Connecting channel (26) is associated with ends (24) of sample introduction channels (18). Connecting channel (32) is associated with ends (20).