Abstract: Apparatus for conducting electrophoresis therein includes a chamber with a gel matrix. The chamber has a first sealed region and a second sealed region, and an anode within the first sealed region of the chamber and in contact with the gel matrix, and a cathode within the second sealed region and in contact with the gel matrix. At least one of the electrodes also provides ions for driving the electrophoresis. The apparatus further includes a matrix with at least one sparingly water-soluble salt.

Abstract: A medium is provided, being adapted to be applied in electrophoretic separation of nucleic acids. The medium comprises a staining reagent adapted to stain nucleic acids. Said medium further comprises a urea derivative, adapted to interact with said staining reagent and thereby providing an enhanced staining of said nucleic acids. Further, an electrophoresis device is provided, adapted to perform electrophoretic separation of nucleic acids, comprising the before medium and comprising electrodes for applying an electrical field across the medium. A method to perform electrophoresis using the before electrophoresis device and medium is provided.

Abstract: A method of simultaneously co-purifying and concentrating nucleic acid and protein targets is described. The method includes automation of the entire sample preparation process, performed by having an analyst add a sample into a device that performs all of the steps necessary to prepare a sample for analysis. The method provides for samples that are not split during the sample preparation process and where common purification methods can be used for purifying multiple analytes.

Abstract: A device providing an arrangement for the separation of a sample mixture for analytical reasons based on multidimensional gel electrophoresis and method thereof are disclosed. The separation involves a first separation in a first dimension of the device on the basis of isoelectric points and a second separation in a second dimension of the device on the basis of molecular size. At least two gel strips for the first dimension separation step and a corresponding gel for the second dimension separation step are provided. The two gel strips are arranged on a single carrier either on the same side or on opposite sides. By having at least two gel strips arranged in such a manner at least two analytical processes can be executed in parallel on the single carrier without the use of valves.

Abstract: The invention relates to a protocol for pre-staining a protein prior to electrophoresis, an electrophoresis method including the protocol, and a kit for carrying out the protocol. The protocol comprises the steps of incubating the protein sample with a pyrylium dye in the presence of a buffer, a detergent and a denaturing agent.

Abstract: The invention relates to an assay for discriminating between amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients and patients with ALS-like disorders that express symptoms like ALS. The method is based on the use of 2-dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis to separate the complex mixture of proteins found in blood serum, the quantitation of a group of identified biomarkers, and the biostatistical analysis of the concentration of the identified biomarkers to differentiate patients having ALS from patients having other ALS-like disorders.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing separation of molecules, in particular biomolecules such as nucleic acids and peptides, are disclosed. The method comprises separating molecules by a first characteristic along a linear dimension of a channel, and separating the molecules by a second characteristic along the same linear dimension, with the rust and second separations being carried out within at least partially overlapping sections of the channel. The two separations may then be combined to give a virtual two-dimensional separation which is carried out in a single dimensional real space. The method may also include detecting molecules during the second separation, preferably using an intrinsic characteristic of the molecules for example UV absorbance.

Abstract: Provided are a biomolecule detection device, a mobile phone for biomolecule detection, and a biomolecule detection method. The biomolecule detection device includes an electrophoresis unit comprising an electrophoretic gel filtering erythrocytes and leukocytes in blood and transferring proteins and DNAs in the blood, and at least one type of a probe biomolecule, immobilized in the electrophoretic gel, reacting with a target biomolecule; a conversion unit converting a result of a reaction between the target biomolecule and the probe biomolecule to an electrical signal; and a lead-out unit receiving, converting, and transmitting the electrical signal.

Abstract: Apparatus for conducting electrophoresis therein includes a chamber with a gel matrix. The chamber has a first sealed region and a second sealed region, and an anode within the first sealed region of the chamber and in contact with the gel matrix, and a cathode within the second sealed region and in contact with the gel matrix. At least one of the electrodes also provides ions for driving the electrophoresis. The apparatus further includes a matrix with at least one sparingly water-soluble salt.

Abstract: The invention provides devices for trapping and collecting separated biomolecules following a separation step. The invention also provides methods of using the devices to trap and collect separated biomolecules.

Abstract: A directional conductivity nanocomposite material, apparatuses and processes for making such material are generally described. A directional conductivity nanocomposite material may comprise a supporting material such as ceramic or polymer, with directionally conductive nanorod structures running through the supporting material. The material may be made by orienting nanorods in an electrophoretic gel using an electrical or magnetic field to align the nanorods, removing the gel, reinforcing the nanorods, and flowing in supporting material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of scanning an electrophoretic gel after electrophoresis of fluorescence labelled samples, comprising inserting the gel into a separate low fluorescent scanning unit, in the shape of a gel folder or a frame, and scanning the gel inside the gel folder or frame with a fluorescence scanner. Any gel may be scanned but if the gel is provided with a gel adherent backing the backing is first removed in a first step. The gel folder may be sealed after scanning for future analysis of the gel. The invention also relates to gel folders and frames as well as a kit with these and a hydrogel. The invention also relates to the use of these for scanning of electrophoretic gels.

Abstract: A series of low molarity conductive media based on non-buffering univalent cations, such as sodium chloride-sodium acetate (SCA), sodium boric acid (SB), lithium boric acid, and lithium acetate mitigate the “runaway” positive feedback heating loop produced by conventional media containing biological amine buffers and permit improved DNA electrophoresis under the conditions of low salt concentration. These media serve well in ultra-fast DNA electrophoresis and in high-resolution separations of RNA and DNA fragments.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a method and apparatus for selective electrokinetic separation. In an embodiment, a local gate electric field is applied to a voltage-gated nanochannel filled with an aqueous solution. Additionally, a surface charge may be present on the walls of the nanochannel. This local gate electric field shows a selective quenching feature of ionic density and behaves as a potential shield against selective charge from entering the nanochannel while facilitating transport of the opposite charge. Embodiments of the subject method can also be used to enhance osmotic diffusion of selective electrolytes through biological cells. Specific embodiments can be useful as a biosensor since most biological cells contain an aqueous solution. A surface charge and local gate electric field can be applied to a biological cell to selectively separate molecules, such as proteins or ions.

Abstract: The present invention describes a method of preparation of a permanent neutral wall coating made of thermally immobilized polysaccharides. The coating suppresses electroosmotic flow and adsorption on the wall under acidic, neutral, and basic conditions in capillary electrophoresis.

Abstract: An electroblotting cassette is formed in three separable parts—an upper plate, a lower plate, and a base that receives both plates, with electrodes mounted on both the upper and lower plates. The cassette accommodates transfer stacks of different thicknesses by its inclusion of a set of raised areas, known as “lands,” on the floor of the base and a set of inverse lands on the underside of the lower electrode plate, the two sets being spatially arranged to either abut each other or be offset from each other, depending on the orientation of the lower plate, thereby allowing the user a choice between two heights of the lower plate within the base and hence two thicknesses of transfer stacks. Other arrangements include those with more than one set of lands on one or both parts to allow for three or more thickness selections, or depressions in place of lands. Finger-operated latches secure the upper plate to the base.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and devices for forming a plurality of wells on a gel containing an analyte. The invention further provides a system for eluting a liquid analyte reagent mixture from a gel. The invention is useful in the separation of biological molecules such as nucleic acids, carbohydrates, proteins and peptides. In particular, the invention has utility for separating and eluting peptides from isoelectric focusing gels.

Abstract: A system for displaying the positions of substances in electrophoretic separations comprises a gel (635) a substance to be separated into a region (450), plates (400, 401) with electrodes (405-420 and 430-445) placed on either side of the gel. A source (315) applies a voltage to an electrode on one side of the gel, and an electrode on the other side of the gel is connected to the input of an amplifier (320). Multiplexers (605, 610) connect the source and amplifier to electrodes on either side of the gel. A computer (600) issues commands to the multiplexers to connect the source and amplifier to individual electrodes, and while a pair of electrodes is so connected, the computer activates a sample-and-hold circuit (620) and an A/D converter (630) to record the value of the electrical impedance within the gel at the location of the selected electrodes. The impedance value is stored in the computer's memory and also displayed on a monitor (635) connected to the computer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a gel processing and transfer device, useful for the processing and transferring un-damaged and intact gel with minimal handling, said device comprising at least 4 separable components namely: a base plate for holding the gels with facility to drain out solution; a retaining rim with attached side-walls, said side walls are fastened to the base plate by a fastening means; at least one “O” ring fixed to the retaining rim to give leakproof arrangement with the base plate; and a lid to cover the assembly.

Abstract: An integrated electrophoresis device includes a passage, a receiving opening, a removal opening, and a set of electric field generators. The passage is provided with gel and buffer solution. The receiving opening is disposed in the passage. The removal opening is also disposed in the passage. The electric field generators generate an electric field in the passage so that a plurality of charged substances in the passage migrates from the receiving opening to the removal opening.

Abstract: The invention provides an electrophoresis cassette, methods for making the electrophoresis cassette, and method of fractionating analytes from a sample based upon electrophoretic mobility in a single application of the sample to an electrophoretic system.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems, devices, apparatuses and methods for automated bioprocessing. Examples of protocols and bioprocessing procedures suitable for the present invention include but are not limited to: immunoprecipitation, chromatin immunoprecipitation, recombinant protein isolation, nucleic acid separation and isolation, protein labeling, separation and isolation, cell separation and isolation, food safety analysis and automatic bead based separation. In some embodiments, the invention provides automated systems, automated devices, automated cartridges and automated methods of western blot processing.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods, devices, systems and compositions for nucleic acid separation and/or purification. In some embodiments, nucleic acids from about 10 nucleotides to about 150 nucleotides may be separated and/or purified in seconds to minutes. A system for purifying a nucleic acid within seconds to minutes may include: a fractionator having a housing, a first electrode, a second electrode spaced away from the first electrode, and a lower buffer chamber proximal to the second electrode; and a pre-cast gel cartridge having an upper buffer chamber and an elongate polyacrylamide gel, wherein the upper buffer chamber is in fluid communication with one end of the polyacrylamide gel, the lower buffer chamber is in fluid communication with the other end of the elongate polyacrylamide gel, the first electrode is in electrical communication with the upper buffer chamber, and the second electrode is in electrical communication with the lower buffer chamber.

Abstract: Devices and methods for separating sample constituents are provided. The subject devices are characterized by having a fluid flow path with at least one electrophoretic separation element positioned at a region thereof. The separation element includes an element for applying an electric field across the fluid flow path and a trapping element for trapping sample constituents that migrate out of the flow path when an electric field is applied across the fluid flow path. In using the subject devices, sample is moved past the separation element and an electric field is applied across the flow path such that constituents of the sample migrate into the trapping element. The subject devices and methods find use in a variety of applications, including protein separation applications.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for purifying analyte molecules and in particular to a component of this type in which a separation section is used for separating analyte molecules and other constituents of a sample, and in which provision is made of at least one sample chamber for receiving a sample containing the analyte molecules and at least one collecting chamber for receiving the purified analyte molecules. According to the invention, the microfluidic component has at least one integrated receptor device for detecting the presence and/or the concentration of the purified analyte molecules. In accordance with one advantageous development of the present invention, the separation section is formed by an electrophoretic gel filtration section.

Abstract: Polymeric compounds and related methods and apparatus, as can be used in a wide range of RNA and DNA separations.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the separation, quantitative measurement, and analysis of trace species using a combination of three steps in succession. First, trace species are separated from other species that are present. Second, the trace species are chemically modified to convert them into specific species that are advantageous for the third and final step. In this last step, cavity enhanced optical detection of the converted species is performed to detect and measure the concentrations of the species of interest. Because the last step has spectroscopic resolution, the concentration of isotopologues in each converted species can be determined. Further processing can provide the ratios between pairs of isotopologues, in particular the ratio of the rare isotopologues to the most abundant isotopologue.

Abstract: A device and a method for multidimensional separation and analysis of molecules is disclosed. The device comprises a chamber for subjecting a first substance to a first analysis step and a space for receiving a second substance. The device is configured to apply pressure to the second substance to move the second substance towards a product of the first analysis step for providing a sample for a second analysis step.

Abstract: The present embodiments provide systems, kits and methods suitable for performing dry or substantially dry electro-blotting analyses on immobilized protein or nucleic acid samples. Electro-blotting performed according to the presently described embodiments may include a step whereby detection of one or more immobilized proteins or nucleic acids is electrophoretically accelerated. Methods for performing electro-blotting of immobilized proteins or nucleic acids may include applying an electric voltage to one or more reagents typically used in protein or nucleic acid blotting procedure. The one or more reagents may be absorbed on a suitable carrier matrix. Electro-blotting performed in accordance with the systems and methods described herein may be performed under substantially dry conditions (i.e., with little or no aqueous buffers).

Abstract: The present invention relates to means and devices for electro-filtration of molecules. The membranes comprise N-acryloyl-tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (NAT) covalently linked to a support. The invention further encompasses compositions comprising an isoelectric buffer covalently bound to N-acryloyl-tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (NAT). In particular, the present invention relates to membranes and devices allowing an isoelectric filtration of molecules in solution.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are presented that facilitate electrophoresis of prior-cast, hydratable separation media, usefully immobilized pH gradient (IPG) strips. The method exploits the swelling of prior-cast, hydratable separation media upon rehydration to help lodge the media in an enclosing member that permits spaced electrical communication with the enclosed separation media. The electrical communication permits a voltage gradient to be established in the enclosed separation medium sufficient to effect separation of analytes therein. Cassettes, buffer cores, electrophoresis systems and kits are presented for effecting the methods of the invention.

Abstract: A microfluidic device for electroelution with sample collection decoupled from the electrophoretic field can generally comprise a channel having a first fluid pathway in fluid communication with a second fluid pathway, the first fluid pathway can comprise a first port in fluid communication with a second port, and a receptacle intermediate the ports, the second fluid pathway can comprise an inlet in fluid communication with an outlet, the first and second ports can be associated with first and second electrodes, respectively, such that the electrodes can create an electrophoretic field across the receptacle, and the channel can be configured to create a pressure drop from the first fluid pathway towards the second fluid pathway that encourages the electroeluted sample to flow towards the second fluid pathway.

Abstract: An electrode arrangement for a gel electrophoresis device, the electrode arrangement comprising a first electrode member adapted to provide an electrical contact with one or more gel strips, wherein the first electrode member comprises a first locking element to lock the first electrode member to the gel electrophoresis device.

Abstract: To improve automation, especially in 2D gel electrophoresis of proteins, DNA etc., a separation device (1) has a physically activatable means for releasing surfactant, eg. SDS, into the gel fr SDS-PAGE. In one embodiment, surfactant-bound polymer is photolytically cleaved; in another, a barrier layer (30) is melted/destroyed to allow surfactant from reservoir (20) to reach the separation area (10). The barrier layer may comprise a novolac.

Abstract: A first dimension electrophoresis apparatus of vertical type with a gel container 2 having a plurality of rectangular rod-shaped gel chambers is provided. The rod-type gels surrounded with non-conductive material plates are arranged in parallel, an upper open end of the gel container 2 is placed tightly into an upper buffer reservoir 4 and the lower open end thereof is placed tightly into a lower buffer reservoir 1. The gel container 2 and the main parts of the first buffer reservoir 4 and the lower buffer reservoir 1 are sunk in a cooling reservoir 5 filled with cooling liquid. The lower buffer reservoir has a panel portion 1b which is bent upward to penetrate the cooling reservoir. Outlet conductors thereof extend from each of the reservoirs and are insulated physically and electrically from the cooling liquid. As a result, the outer surface of the gel container can directly contact with the cooling liquid.

Abstract: Electroblotting for the transfer of electrophoretically separated species from a gel to a transfer membrane is performed in a semi-dry format with sheets of absorbent polyester or polyester/cellulose blend wetted with buffer solution in place of the traditional buffer-wetted filter paper. The result is effective electroblotting at a lower electric current level than that obtained with filter paper and thereby less resistance heating of the gel, the transfer membrane, and the species being transferred.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, wherein in at least one dimension of the electrophoresis, the functional core part thereof is formed essentially of Corian material. Furthermore, at least one electrode is preferably designed in a mobile manner in the first dimension, so that it can be adapted to varying lengths of gel.

Abstract: Electrophoresis systems, assemblies, cassettes and methods for easily, and more effectively and efficiently, isolating a biomolecule band from an electrophoretic gel are provided. The methods use an electrophoresis cassette with at least one loading well and at lest one collection well. A sample containing the biomolecule of interest is placed into at least one loading well and buffer or water is placed in at lest one collection well. An electric field is then applied to drive migration and separation of the sample into different component bands within the gel. When the component of interest is located within at least one collection well, the electric field is terminated and the buffer or water in the collection well is removed, thereby isolating and collecting the sample component of interest.

Abstract: A degradable polyacrylamide gel for analyzing or separating at least one macromolecule in a sample using electrophoresis includes a polyacrylamide cross-linked with at least one degradable cross-linker having a ketal or acetal group with the formula (I), wherein R1 and R2 are the same or different and are hydrogen, an alkyl, or a substituted alkyl.

Abstract: An electrophoresis membrane support comprising a substantially planar member having four boundaries. an upper face and a lower face; an inlet port disposed near one boundary; an outlet port disposed opposite the inlet port near an opposite boundary; spacers positioned between the inlet port and outlet port adapted to support a membrane positioned on the upper face or on the lower face of the member; interstitial space disposed between the spacers capable of allowing flow of fluid therein; inlet means in fluid communication with the inlet port and the interstitial space; outlet in fluid communication with the interstitial space and the inlet port, the inlet and outlet means adapted to allow flow of fluid along the interstitial space; first flow port disposed near one boundary; and second flow port disposed opposite the first flow port near an opposite boundary, the first and second flow ports direct flow of fluid to or from the electrophoresis apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to novel polymeric materials for use in the electrophoretic separation of nucleic acids. In particular, the novel polymer materials are sparsely crosslinked nanogels, dissolved in an aqueous buffer to form solutions with moderate to high viscosity. The present invention further provides methods for generating such novel polymers, and related methods of their use.

Abstract: A method is provided for separating single- and double-stranded nucleic acid molecules based on their strandness and length.

Abstract: Sample disks are excised from a membrane by a cutting apparatus that includes a cutting tool terminating in a hollow cylinder with an exposed cutting edge, the tool slidably retained within a sleeve or otherwise slidably mounted to a mounting body, with a spiral cam in either the tool or the mounting body. A rider is included in the construction and arranged to engage the cam such that sliding movement of the cutting tool translates into rotational movement of the cylinder and its cutting edge.

Abstract: A method for analyzing agricultural products at a point of transaction is provided. The method comprises presenting a sample comprising at least one seed to a portable analysis system; analyzing the sample for at least one relevant attribute; and characterizing the sample for the transaction based upon the results of the analysis for the at least one relevant attribute.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for the separation of analytes based on their molecular weight, by application of an electric field across a low-friction matrix that includes with a charged separation agent. The matrix comprises charged regions ordered in a monotonous sequence distributed throughout the matrix so as to generate a charge density gradient. When an external electric field is applied, the complex will move through the different charged regions and focusing of different analytes in different charge regions will occur. These systems are suitable for planar, capillary in-tube electrophoresis, as well as multi-channel arrays of capillaries filled with charge gradient gels, serial arrays of discrete compartments with charge density gradient, arrays in a chip format, pre-designed mass focusing arrays for specific protein masses in application for protein and DNA marker diagnostics, and multi compartment trapping devices for specific mass ranges.

Abstract: Disclosed is a technique for electrophoresis analysis, capable of eliminating the need for labeling a sample with a fluorescent or radioactive material. An electrophoresis cell is formed with a plurality of electrophoretic paths arranged in parallel relation to each other. Each of the electrophoretic paths has an upper end serving as a sample injection end, and a lower end received in a sample receiver. Further, each of the electrophoretic paths has a plurality of microchannels each extending uniformly from a position apart from the upper end by a predetermined distance to the lower end. The microchannels serve as a diffraction grating for diffracting light which irradiates a surface of the electrophoresis cell in a direction perpendicular to the surface, to produce diffracted light.

Abstract: A medium is provided, being adapted to be applied in electrophoretic separation of nucleic acids. The medium comprises a staining reagent adapted to stain nucleic acids. Said medium further comprises a urea derivative, adapted to interact with said staining reagent and thereby providing an enhanced staining of said nucleic acids. Further, an electrophoresis device is provided, adapted to perform electrophoretic separation of nucleic acids, comprising the before medium and comprising electrodes for applying an electrical field across the medium. A method to perform electrophoresis using the before electrophoresis device and medium is provided.

Abstract: Applicator of a fluid sample on a substrate, wherein at least an applying blade substantially of rectangular shape in its turn defining a body of the blade, a tip of the blade and two facing side edges of the blade, wherein each blade has a drain of the body of the blade stretching between the facing side edges of the blade, the drain defining a physical barrier for the fluid sample; and at least one calibrated retention aperture of the fluid sample, put between the tip of the blade and the drain of the blade, the at least one aperture being calibrated in order to keep on its inside an exactly defined amount of fluid sample.

Abstract: A gel and buffer system for gel electrophoresis wherein separation occurs at neutral pH.

Abstract: A gel extraction device comprising a hollow cutting member having a cutting edge at one end and a squeeze bulb at the other end. In a further embodiment, the air passage between the cutting edge and the bulb has a constriction zone to prevent any extracted gel from being drawn too deeply into the extractor. In a further embodiment, a blow-hole in the hollow cutting member or in the squeeze bulb provides for the passage of air displaced by gel through the extractor. The blow-hole may be covered to secure the gel in the receptacle for transfer from the matrix to a sample container.