Involving Lysis Of A Microorganism By Means Other Than Comminution Patents (Class 435/306.1)
  • Publication number: 20140206074
    Abstract: A cartridge for conducting a chemical reaction includes a body having at least one flow path formed therein. The cartridge also includes a reaction vessel extending from the body for holding a reaction mixture for chemical reaction and optical detection. The vessel comprises a rigid frame defining the side walls of a reaction chamber. The frame includes at least one channel connecting the flow path to the chamber. The vessel also includes flexible films or sheets attached to opposite sides of the rigid frame to form opposing major walls of the chamber. In addition, at least two of the side walls are optically transmissive and angularly offset from each to permit real-time optical detection of analyte in the reaction chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventors: Kurt E. Peterson, William McMillan, Farzad Pourahmadi, Ronald Chang, Douglas B. Dority
  • Publication number: 20140199744
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, the disclosure provides a system for algal cell lysis. The system may include at least one algal cell, a plurality of metal nanoparticles, and an electromagnetic radiation generator. The generator may be able to generate radio frequency or microwave radiation that excites the plurality of metal nanoparticles, resulting in lysis of the algal cell. The disclosure also provides a system for recovery of a lipid from an algal cell similar to the above system but also including a separator. The disclosure further provides a method of recovering a lipid from an algal cell by supplying a plurality of metal nanoparticles to at least one algal cell, exciting the plurality of metal nanoparticles with radio frequency or microwave electromagnetic radiation, lysing the algal cell to release the lipid, and separating the lipid from the lysed algal cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2014
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Applicant: RAYTHEON COMPANY
    Inventors: Carlos R. Costas, Christopher R. Eck
  • Patent number: 8772017
    Abstract: Integrated microfluidic cartridges for nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection from clinical samples are disclosed. The devices are single-entry, sanitary, and disposable. The devices enable simplex or multiplex nucleic acid target detection, as for example: assay panels for multiple infectious agents, or assay panels for cancerous cell types. Methods for use of microfluidic cartridges in a fully automated, pneumatically controlled apparatus are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Micronics, Inc.
    Inventors: C. Frederick Battrell, John Gerdes, John R. Williford, Denise Maxine Hoekstra, Wayne L. Breidford, Stephen Mordue, John Clemmens, Melud Nabavi, Mark Kokoris
  • Publication number: 20140178982
    Abstract: A reagent supply device includes a plurality of chambers which are separated from each other such that different reagents may be injected, the plurality of chambers having bottom surfaces made of a membrane, the membrane comprising a destruction pattern which is formed at a position corresponding to each of the plurality of chambers and breachable by an external impact to discharge the injected reagent from the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventors: Chin-sung PARK, Kak NAMKOONG, Joon-sub SHIM, Won-seok CHUNG, Kyung-ho KIM, Joon-ho KIM, Won-jong JUNG
  • Patent number: 8758990
    Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for detecting Mycobacterium genus (Mycobacterium sp.) bacteria (e.g., M. tuberculosis) and M. avium complex (MAC; M. avium, M. scrofulaceum and M. intracellulaire) in a clinical sample or culture. The present invention also relates to differentiating cultures or samples comprising (Mycobacterium sp.) bacteria (e.g., M. tuberculosis) from cultures or samples comprising M. avium complex (MAC; M. avium, M. scrofulaceum and M. intracellulaire).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: ID-Fish Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Jyotsna S. Shah, Helena Weltman
  • Publication number: 20140154797
    Abstract: A lysis/resealing process for preparing erythrocytes containing active ingredient is provided comprising placing a globular concentrate in suspension in an isotonic solution having a haematocrit level which is equal to or greater than 65%, with refrigeration at 1 to 8° C.; measuring the osmotic fragility based on a sample of erythrocytes from that same globular concentrate, preferably on a sample of the suspension; lysis and internalisation procedure of the active ingredient, inside the same chamber, at a temperature maintained at 1 to 8° C., comprising allowing the erythrocyte suspension having a haematocrit level equal to or greater than 65% and a hypotonic lysis solution which is refrigerated at 1 to 8° C., to circulate in a dialysis cartridge; the lysis parameters being adjusted in accordance with the osmotic fragility previously measured; and resealing in a second chamber at a temperature of from 30 to 40° C. by means of a hypertonic solution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: ERYTECH PHARMA
    Inventor: Yann GODFRIN
  • Publication number: 20140147862
    Abstract: A microfluidic apparatus capable of being mounted on a rotation driving unit. When mounted on the rotation driving unit and rotated, a fluid flow is induced in the apparatus due to a centrifugal force. the microfluidic apparatus includes a sample supplying unit that comprises a sample chamber to house a sample and provides a fluid including a target material in which fine beads are bound to a target cell in the sample; a density-gradient separation unit that houses a density gradient material with a lower density than the target material, and receives the fluid from the sample supplying unit to separate the target material from the fluid based on a density difference; a fluid supplying channel connecting the sample supplying unit to the density-gradient separation unit to form a passage of the fluid; and a fluid supplying valve provided to the fluid supplying channel to selectively allow a flow of the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2013
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Inventors: Min Seok S. KIM, Jong-myeon PARK
  • Publication number: 20140127773
    Abstract: Lysing may include agitating a specimen in a chamber along with a medium that includes a particulate lysing material that has an affinity for a biological material. Lysing material may include beads or other material which may be coated that facilitates binding. The medium may include a fluid with a high salt or low pH level. Binding of biological materials to solid surfaces may be induced by particular media. The biological material may be eluted by lowering a concentration of salt or increasing a pH level. Lysing materials with two or more different affinities may be employed. Lysing materials may include particles of different sizes. Heating may be used. Lysing may be performed in a flow through apparatus. Surfaces of solid materials may be modified to capture bacteria with high cell wall lipid content.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Inventors: Mark Brown, Robert Doebler, Bruce Irvine, Tanya Ferguson, Gary Blackburn
  • Publication number: 20140120599
    Abstract: A device configured for lysing a sample includes a holding element configured to hold an energy-transmitting element such that the holding element lies around the held part of the energy-transmitting element and envelops the held part of the energy-transmitting element and/or that the holding element lies against the held part of the energy-transmitting element. The holding element is further configured to cause lysis with the energy-transmitting element when the holding element is immersed into the sample to be subjected to lysis or comes into contact with the sample to be subjected to lysis. A method includes inserting the energy-transmitting element into the holding element. A system configured for lysing a sample by way of ultrasound includes the device and the energy transmitting element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Martina Daub, Jochen Rupp, Peter Rothacher
  • Patent number: 8702927
    Abstract: Provided are probes featuring multiple electrodes, which probes have diameters in the nanometer range and may be inserted into cells or other subjects so as to monitor an electrical characteristic of the subject. The probes may also include a conductive coating on at least one probe element to improve the probes' performance. The probes may also be used to inject a fluid or other agent into the subject and simultaneously monitor changes in the subject's electrical characteristics in response to the injection. Related methods of fabricating and of using the inventive probes are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: The Trustees Of The University Of Pennsylvania
    Inventors: Haim H. Bau, Michael G. Schrlau, Rui Zhang
  • Publication number: 20140087359
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and systems for use in preparing a sample. The methods and systems may be used for lysing one or more structures in a sample (e.g., cells, viral particles, etc.). The methods and compositions may comprise a microfluidic chip or use thereof. The microfluidic chips disclosed herein may comprise (a) a substrate comprising a chamber, wherein at least one mechanical element may be located within the chamber; (b) a thermal element in contact with the chamber; and (c) at least one aperture within the surface of the substrate, wherein the aperture may be configured to insulate the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Samuel NJOROGE, John GORMAN, George MALTEZOS, Axel SCHERER
  • Patent number: 8679831
    Abstract: A microfluidic device includes an input port for inputting a particle-containing liquidic samples into the device, a retention member, and a pressure actuator. The retention member is in communication with the input port and is configured to spatially separate particles of the particle-containing liquidic sample from a first portion of the liquid of the particle containing fluidic sample. The pressure actuator recombines at least some of the separated particles with a subset of the first portion of the liquid separated from the particles. The device can also include a lysing chamber that receives the particles and liquid from the retention member. The lysing chamber thermally lyses the particles to release contents thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Handylab, Inc.
    Inventors: Kalyan Handique, Gene Parunak, Aaron Kehrer, Betty Wu, Karthik Ganesan
  • Publication number: 20140080207
    Abstract: Microorganisms such as microalgae are collected and separated from a host medium such as water. Cellular walls and membranes of the microorganisms are then ruptured to release their lipids using a lipid extraction unit. Thereafter, the lipids from the host medium are collected and separated using a lipid collection and separation unit. Related apparatus, systems, techniques and articles are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: FLODESIGN SONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Bart Lipkens, Eric Mitchell, Joey Carmichael, Dane Mealey, Jason Dionne
  • Publication number: 20140072998
    Abstract: Apparatus for automated venting and/or sampling of a specimen container having a closure sealing the interior of the specimen container from the environment is disclosed. The apparatus includes a rack holding the specimen container; a venting and/or sampling device having a needle, a chamber in fluid communication with the needle and a port in fluid communication with the chamber; a robotic transfer mechanism moveable relative to the rack; a sample removal apparatus attached to the robotic transfer mechanism having gripping features for gripping the venting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: BIOMERIEUX, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher S. Ronsick, Mark S. Wilson, Ronnie J. Robinson
  • Publication number: 20140057278
    Abstract: Methods and devices for biological sample preparation and analysis are disclosed. A device may have a circular arrangement of containers, with a connecting structure such as a disk. Fluidics channels between containers allow the performance of different techniques for sample preparation, such as lysing, washing and elution. The device may be pen-shaped and have a sample drawing needle connected to the containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: California Institute Of Technology
    Inventors: Xiomara Linnette MADERO, Imran R MALIK, Erika F GARCIA, Axel SCHERER
  • Publication number: 20140057277
    Abstract: Methods and devices for biological sample preparation and analysis are disclosed. A device may have a linear or circular arrangement of containers, with a connecting structure such as a bar or disk. Fluidics channels between containers allow the performance of different techniques for sample preparation, such as lysing, washing and elution. Different functional elements, such as grinders or mixers, may be attached to the containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: California Institute Of Technology
    Inventors: Imran R MALIK, Erika F GARCIA, Xiomara Linnette MADERO, Axel SCHERER
  • Patent number: 8632963
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for allowing foreign particles to penetrate, very efficiently, the cell wall, cell membrane, organelle membrane and/or nuclear membrane of a cell and hybridizing or binding to the complimentary target in the cell. The cells may be from a culture or from specimens obtained from a patient. The foreign particle can be a probe consisting of, for example, either individually or in any combination of two or more of the following: DNA, RNA, peptide nucleic acids (PNA), glycopeptides, lipopeptides, glycolipids or prions. The target is a cell, a cell component or, preferably, a pathogen or pathogen component. The pathogen can be, for example, bacteria, fungi, yeast or viruses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: ID-FISH Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Jyotsna Shah, Helena Weltman
  • Publication number: 20140004501
    Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for electrically lysing cells and releasing macromolecules from the cells. A microfluidic device is provided that includes a planar channel having a thickness on a submillimeter scale, and including electrodes on its upper and lower inner surfaces. After filling the channel with a liquid, such that the channel contains cells within the liquid, a series of voltage pulses of alternating polarity are applied between the channel electrodes, where the amplitude of the voltage pulses and a pulsewidth of the voltage pulses are effective for causing irreversible electroporation of the cells. The channel is configured to possess thermal properties such that the application of the voltage produces a rapid temperature rise as a result of Joule heating for releasing the macromolecules from the electroplated cells. The channel may also include an internal filter for capturing and concentrating the cells prior to electrical processing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventors: Samad TALEBPOUR, Aye Aye KHINE, Robert MAASKANT, Tino ALAVIE
  • Patent number: 8617840
    Abstract: Lysis/resealing process for preparing erythrocytes which contain an active ingredient (e.g. aspariginase or inositol hexaphosphate), the process comprising the following steps: (1) placing a globular concentrate in suspension in an isotonic solution having a haematocrit level which is equal to or greater than 65%, with refrigeration at from +1 to +8° C., (2) measuring the osmotic fragility based on a sample of erythrocytes from that same globular concentrate, preferably on a sample of the suspension obtained in step (1), (3) lysis and internalization procedure of the active ingredient, inside the same chamber, at a temperature which is constantly maintained at from +1 to +8° C., comprising allowing the erythrocyte suspension having a haematocrit level which is equal to or greater than 65% and a hypotonic lysis solution which is refrigerated at from +1 to +8° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Erytech Pharma
    Inventor: Yann Godfrin
  • Publication number: 20130323815
    Abstract: The invention provides methods for extraction of fungal (e.g., yeast spp., filamentous fungal spp.) nucleic acid (e.g., DNA, RNA) from a sample (e.g., be human or veterinary clinical or research samples, agricultural samples, agricultural commodity samples, food products, or environmental samples). In some embodiments, the present invention provides enhanced nucleic acid extraction from samples comprising fungal cell(s) wherein enzymatic (e.g., lysostaphin treatment, lyticase treatment) sample treatment is performed in combination with mechanical (e.g., bead beating) sample treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: IBIS BIOSCIENCES, INC.
    Inventors: Gerard Gundling, Thomas Laffler, Cristina A. Ivy, Lendell Cummins
  • Publication number: 20130323831
    Abstract: The instant invention provides an intergrated kit with solutions and instruments to isolate various biological samples from biological samples. The kit enables an user to preserve specimens and isolate biomolecules with features and benefits of high quality, easy, fast, no toxicity, safe to user and environment, low demanding, cost-effective, reducing waste, saving nature resources and protecting environment, and leads to a low-carbon and Green economy in preparation of specimens. The integrated kit enables the user to extract biomolecules including DNA/ccfDNA, Large RNA/mRNA/ccfRNA, Small RNA/miRNA/ccfmiRNA, Protein, Lipid, Carbohydrates, and Metabolite using one seamless procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: BEXMART
    Inventors: Bob HAN, Eric HAN, Xiaohui XIONG, Xiaoliang HAN
  • Publication number: 20130316335
    Abstract: The invention provides containers and methods of use for the storage, transportation and preparation of samples, such as DNA samples for analysis. The container is pre-provided with the reagents in sealed chambers. The sample can be introduced and the container manipulated to release the reagents, provide the necessary conditions and give a fully prepared sample. The container can then be engaged with an analysis device to identify characteristics of the sample or perform other operations thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicants: GRID XITEK LIMITED, FORENSIC SCIENCE SERVICE LIMITED
    Inventors: Gary ROSS, Sebastian WETHERALL, Owen EVANS, Andrew HOPWOOD, Nina MORAN
  • Patent number: 8592204
    Abstract: Microorganisms such as microalgae are collected and separated from a host medium such as water. Cellular walls and membranes of the microorganisms are then ruptured to release their lipids using a lipid extraction unit. Thereafter, the lipids from the host medium are collected and separated using a lipid collection and separation unit. Related apparatus, systems, techniques and articles are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Flodesign Sonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Bart Lipkens, Eric Mitchell, Joey Carmichael, Dane Mealey, Jason Dionne
  • Publication number: 20130302884
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices are described for multiple single-cell capturing and processing utilizing microfluidics. Tools and techniques are provided for capturing, partitioning, and/or manipulating individual cells from a larger population of cells along with generating genetic information and/or reactions related to each individual cell. Different capture configurations may be utilized to capture individual cells and then processing each individual cell in a multi-chamber reaction configuration. Some embodiments may provide for specific target amplification, whole genome amplification, whole transcriptome amplification, real-time PCR preparation, copy number variation, preamplification, mRNA sequencing, and/or haplotyping of the multiple individual cells that have been partitioned from the larger population of cells. Some embodiments may provide for other applications. Some embodiments may be configured for imaging the individual cells or associated reaction products as part of the processing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Brian Fowler, Jake Kimball, Myo Thu Maung, Andrew May, Michael C. Norris, Dominique G. Toppani, Marc A. Unger, Jing Wang, Jason A.A. West
  • Publication number: 20130280710
    Abstract: A system for at least one of homogenization and lysis of a sample includes one or more walls forming an enclosed chamber having an inlet and a plurality of fluidic connections. A first fluidic network is coupled to at least one of the plurality of fluidic connections and a second fluidic network is coupled to at least one of the plurality of fluidic connections. The system further includes a rotary element within the chamber, and an actuator configured to rotate the rotary element. The first fluidic network is configured to introduce at least a sample into the chamber from at least one first reservoir. The second fluidic network is configured to expel at least the sample from the chamber to at least one second reservoir. The rotary element is rotated by the actuator about an axis extending along a length of the rotary element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: STAT-DIAGNOSTICA & INNOVATION, S.L.
    Inventors: Jordi CARRERA FABRA, Anna COMENGÉS CASAS, Ricard MARTÍN BLANCO, Rafael BRU GIBERT
  • Patent number: 8557568
    Abstract: Provided is a method of disrupting cells comprising adding gold nanorods to a solution containing cells and irradiating the gold nanorods with a laser to disrupt the cells. A method and an apparatus for continuously disrupting cells and amplifying nucleic acids in a single microchamber are also provided, wherein the method comprises introducing a solution containing cells and gold nanorods into a microchamber, irradiating a laser onto the gold nanorods to disrupt the cells, and amplifying a nucleic acid from the disrupted cells in the microchamber. The apparatus comprises a cell disruption chamber comprising a sample inlet, and gold nanorods introduced therein; a laser attached to the cell disruption chamber, wherein the laser is for generating light at a wavelength absorbed by the gold nanorods; and a heater and a cooler for heating and cooling the cell disruption chamber. Also disclosed is a lab-on-a chip comprising the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kwang Ho Cheong, Dong-kee Yi, Jeong-gun Lee, Jong-myeon Park
  • Publication number: 20130244242
    Abstract: Methods and systems for acoustically treating material using a continuous process in which material may be caused to flow in a continuous or intermittent fashion into/out of an acoustic treatment chamber where the material is exposed to focused acoustic energy. The methods and systems may be arranged to permit continuous processing for extended periods while an acoustic energy source operates at a relatively high power output. Treatment chambers may include features such as an acoustic window, a heat exchanger, inlet/outlet flow arrangements, an inspection window, insert elements that define a treatment volume size or shape, etc. Treatment system configurations relating to arrangements of a treatment chamber relative to an acoustic source and coupling medium, material flow paths, and others are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: Covaris, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Laugharn, JR., Xiaoyin He
  • Patent number: 8519014
    Abstract: An ion exchangeable mixture containing a polymeric compound consisting of an ion exchange resin, an acrylamide mixture containing at least one bisacrylamide and at least one acrylamide, and a copolymer obtained by reacting the polymeric compound with the acrylamide mixture, and a method of producing the same are provided. The ion exchangeable membrane produced by using the ion exchangeable mixture has significantly smaller electric resistance than conventional ion exchangeable membranes, and has excellent selective permeability because the ion exchangeable membrane is electrically charged. The ion exchangeable membrane can be produced under very mild production conditions, and thus can be produced very easily. Furthermore, the ion exchangeable membrane can be also formed into film during a crosslinking reaction in a solvent of water, and thus is advantageous in that the ion exchangeable membrane can be freely produced into desired sizes, shapes and forms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hun-joo Lee, Ji-na Namgoong, Soo-suk Lee, Joon-ho Kim
  • Publication number: 20130217113
    Abstract: The invention relates to a droplet actuator for conducting droplet operations. The actuator includes a bottom substrate and a top substrate separated from the bottom substrate to form a gap. An arrangement of droplet operations electrodes may be located on a surface of the bottom substrate and/or top substrate. Optionally, a sample reservoir may hold a quantity of a sample fluid containing cells. A disruption device which can take various forms is used to lyse the cells in the sample or in a sample droplet to thereby conduct operations on samples having lysed cells therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: ADVANCED LIQUID LOGIC INC.
    Inventors: Vijay Srinivasan, William Craig Bauer, Gregory F. Smith, Ryan A. Sturmer, Zhishan Hua, Allen E. Eckhardt
  • Publication number: 20130164738
    Abstract: Biological sample collection kits are devised with physical features to enable a high performance collection system which delivers preprocessed biological matter via conventional shipping means to a testing laboratories. In particular, untrained and unskilled users deposit biological matter such as saliva or blood into a receiving vessel. By sealing the container, the user causes release of a premixed solution containing preservatives and optionally lysis reagents. In addition, a purification agent is arranged to bind to target molecules and facilitate their removal from solution. These time consuming processes occur while the sample is in transit to the testing facility such that when it arrives, it is in a preconditioned state immediately ready for execution of washing steps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Inventors: David Becker, James Plante, Moreno Tanya, Cindy Wang
  • Publication number: 20130149691
    Abstract: Provided is a nucleic acid preservative comprising at least one reducing agent, at least one chaotropic substance, at least one polyamine substance and at least one chelating agent and uses thereof, and a method for the preservation of nucleic acids in a biological sample. Further provided are kits for use in the preservation of nucleic acids in a biological sample, and more particularly, a blood sample.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: Norgen Biotek Corp.
    Inventor: Yousef Haj-Ahmad
  • Publication number: 20130137172
    Abstract: Devices, containers, and methods are provided for performing biological analysis in a closed environment. Illustrative biological analyses include high density nucleic acid amplification and detection and immuno-PCR.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: BioFire Diagnostics, Inc. f/k/a Idaho Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: BioFire Diagnostics, Inc. f/k/a Idaho Technology, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130115670
    Abstract: A process for the disruption of a biological cell comprising freezing, boiling or perhaps alternately freezing and boiling the material containing the biological cell using a thermoelectric cell a base face whereof is contiguous with a heat sink/source held at a substantially constant temperature and a working face . Apparatus for carrying out the disruption process comprises a peltier cell a base face of which is flexibly attached to a heat sink arranged to be kept at a constant temperature of around 50° C. and a working face of which is contiguous with a reaction vessel or a reaction vessel holder. Reversal of the voltage in the peltier cell enables the working face alternately to reach below freezing and above boiling temperatures, and/or with use of a resistive wire on the vessel holder for heating with the TEC used purely for cooling The peltier cell base face is constructed of materials which tend to inhibit disintegration of the peltier cell brought about by expansion and contraction under heat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Nelson Nazareth, David Ward, David Edge
  • Patent number: 8435465
    Abstract: A microfluidic cartridge for isolating biological molecules having a capture chamber containing functionalized solid supports maintained in a fluidized state provides reduced pressure drops and bubble formation during microfluidic extraction. The cartridge may include an electric field lysis chamber and/or a chemical lysis chamber. The electric-field lysis chamber may comprise an electrically insulating structure arranged between two opposing planar electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: CFD Research Corporation
    Inventors: Shivshankar Sundaram, Balabhaskar Prabhakarpandian, Kapil Pant, Yi Wang
  • Patent number: 8415330
    Abstract: Disclosed are compositions for isolating populations of nucleic acids from biological, forensic, and environmental samples. Also disclosed are methods for using these compositions as one-step formulations for killing pathogens, inactivating nucleases, and releasing polynucleotides from other cellular components within the sample, and stabilizing the nucleic acids prior to further processing or assay. The disclosed compositions safely facilitate rapid sample collection, and provide extended storage and transport of the samples at ambient or elevated temperature without contamination of the sample or degradation of the nucleic acids contained therein. This process particularly facilitates the collection of specimens from remote locations, and under conditions previously considered hostile for preserving the integrity of nucleic acids released from lysed biological samples without the need of refrigeration or freezing prior to molecular analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Longhorn Vaccines & Diagnostics, LLC
    Inventors: Gerald W. Fischer, Luke T. Daum
  • Publication number: 20130072701
    Abstract: A method and system for processing algae involves the use of an ionic liquid-containing clarified cell lysate to lyse algae cells. The resulting crude cell lysate may be clarified and subsequently used to lyse algae cells. The process may be repeated a number of times before a clarified lysate is separated into lipid and aqueous phases for further processing and/or purification of desired products.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: STREAMLINE AUTOMATION, LLC
    Inventor: Streamline Automation, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130045532
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods and kits for separating, accumulating, characterizing and/or identifying microorganisms known to be present or that may be present in a test sample. The method of the invention comprises optional lysing non-microorganism cells and/or particulates that may be present in a test sample, followed by a subsequent filtration step for isolation and/or accumulation of microorganisms. The kit of the present invention may comprise at least one filter membrane or an integrated filtration and sample transfer device for isolation and/or accumulation of microorganisms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: BOIMERIEUX, INC.
    Inventors: Jones M. Hyman, John D. Walsh, Ronnie J. Robinson, Christopher Ronsick
  • Publication number: 20130017544
    Abstract: An integrated droplet actuator device and methods are provided for performing PCR amplification and high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis on a single droplet actuator. HRM analysis can be used in combination with PCR amplification for detection of sequence variations (e.g., single-nucleotide polymorphisms, nucleotide-repeat polymorphisms, mutation scanning and assessment of DNA methylation) within one or more genes of interest. The PCR amplicons can be fluorescently labeled during amplification using a saturating DNA intercalating fluorescent dye, a 5?-labeled primer, or labeled probes. Also provided are a droplet actuator device and methods for sample preparation using the droplet actuator and detection of sequence variations on the same droplet actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicant: Advanced Liquid Logic Inc
    Inventors: Allen E. Eckhardt, Zhishan Hua
  • Publication number: 20120329122
    Abstract: Microorganisms such as microalgae are collected and separated from a host medium such as water. Cellular walls and membranes of the microorganisms are then ruptured to release their lipids using a lipid extraction unit. Thereafter, the lipids from the host medium are collected and separated using a lipid collection and separation unit. Related apparatus, systems, techniques and articles are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: FloDesign Sonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Bart Lipkens, Eric Mitchell, Joey Carmichael, Dane Mealey, Jason Dionne
  • Publication number: 20120309004
    Abstract: A micro-device for disrupting cells includes a first chamber in which the cells are disrupted, a second chamber which is pressurized and depressurized, a flexible membrane which separates the first chamber and the second chamber and is vibrated by pressuring and depressurizing the second chamber, and a micro-unit confined in the first chamber, where the micro-unit disrupts the cells in the first chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kyu-youn HWANG, Joon-ho KIM, Sung-hong KWON, Chin-sung PARK, Hee-kyun LIM, Sun-ok JUNG, Won-jong JUNG
  • Patent number: 8303911
    Abstract: A microfluidic system for processing a sample includes a microfluidic CD in the form a rotatable disc, the disc containing a plurality of separate lysis chambers therein. A magnetic lysis blade and lysis beads are disposed in each of the lysis chambers and a plurality of stationary magnets are disposed adjacent to and separate from the microfluidic CD. The stationary magnets are configured to magnetically interact with each of the magnetic lysis blades upon rotation of the microfluidic CD. Each lysis chamber may have its own separate sample inlet port or, alternatively, the lysis chambers may be connected to one another with a single inlet port coupled to one of the lysis chambers. Downstream processing may include nucleic acid amplification using thermoelectric heating as well as detection using a nucleic acid microarray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Jonathan P. Siegrist, Robert A. Gorkin, III, Regis Peytavi, Marc Madou, Horacio Kido, Mary Amasia, Emmanuel Roy, Teodor Veres
  • Publication number: 20120264137
    Abstract: A porous membrane for lysis of a cell population enriched from a biological sample, and isolation of cellular components is provided. The porous membrane contains embedded lysing agents to perform lysing. The biological sample is brought into contact with the membrane. Lysis occurs through the action of the embedded lysing agents on the biological sample. The pores of the porous membrane are designed to have dimensions to allow only a desired type of cellular component(s) resulting from lysis to pass through the membrane, thereby achieving isolation of the desired cellular component(s). The action of lysing agents is combined with the filtration properties of porous membranes resulting in an easy-to-use and cost-effective technique.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: INDIAN INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE
    Inventors: Siva Rama Krishna Vanjari, Navakanta Bhat, Sampath Srinivasan, Bharadwaj Amrutur, Sandeep Keshavan, Deepthi Indukuri
  • Publication number: 20120237939
    Abstract: Devices, processes, and kits for the extraction of nucleic acids from biological samples are disclosed. The devices comprise a first port, a second port, and a binding chamber intermediate and in fluid communication with the first port and the second port. The binding chamber comprises an unmodified flat glass surface effective for binding a heterogeneous population of nucleic acids. The first port, second port, and binding chamber define a continuous fluid pathway that is essentially free of nucleic acid-specific binding sites.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: BLOOD CELL STORAGE, INC.
    Inventors: Michael W. Reed, Oliver Z. Nanassy, Paul V. Haydock, Nigel Rudra Sharma, Ronald L. Bardell, Perry Hargrave
  • Publication number: 20120237925
    Abstract: Apparatuses, kits, and methods for portable sample disruption (e.g., for encouraging cell lysis).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: ZYMO RESEARCH CORPORATION
    Inventors: Nikolas M. Isely, Marc E. Van Eden, Jonathan K. Brown
  • Patent number: 8268603
    Abstract: An apparatus for disrupting cells or viruses comprises a container having a chamber for holding the cells or viruses. The container includes at least one flexible wall defining the chamber. The apparatus also includes a transducer for impacting an external surface of the flexible wall to generate pressure waves in the chamber. The apparatus also includes a pressure source for increasing the pressure in the chamber. The pressurization of the chamber ensures effective coupling between the transducer and the flexible wall. The apparatus may also include beads in the chamber for rupturing the cells or viruses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Cepheid
    Inventors: Michael T. Taylor, Phillip Belgrader, Farzad Pourahmadi, William A. McMillan, Ronald Chang, Jesus Ching
  • Patent number: 8263671
    Abstract: An ion exchangeable mixture containing a polymeric compound consisting of an ion exchange resin, an acrylamide mixture containing at least one bisacrylamide and at least one acrylamide, and a copolymer obtained by reacting the polymeric compound with the acrylamide mixture, and a method of producing the same are provided. The ion exchangeable membrane produced by using the ion exchangeable mixture has significantly smaller electric resistance than conventional ion exchangeable membranes, and has excellent selective permeability because the ion exchangeable membrane is electrically charged. The ion exchangeable membrane can be produced under very mild production conditions, and thus can be produced very easily. Furthermore, the ion exchangeable membrane can be also formed into film during a crosslinking reaction in a solvent of water, and thus is advantageous in that the ion exchangeable membrane can be freely produced into desired sizes, shapes and forms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hun-joo Lee, Ji-na Namgoong, Soo-suk Lee, Joon-ho Kim
  • Patent number: 8263386
    Abstract: An aspect of embodiment relates to a digital bio disc (DBD) including new valve control means and fluid movement system, a digital bio disc (DBD) driver apparatus, and an assay method using the same. More particularly, an aspect of embodiment relates to a DBD with a lab-on-a-chip for various diagnostic assays, nucleic acid hybridization assays, or immunoassays, a DBD driver apparatus integrated with a controller for controlling the DBD and a general optical disc (CD or DVD), and an assay method using the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jae Chern Yoo
  • Publication number: 20120219987
    Abstract: There is provided a membrane disruption device including a sample container and an electrode assembly. The sample container includes a sample-containing space defined by a containing surface and configured for containing a cellular-material comprising fluid, wherein the sample-containing space includes at least one membrane disruption space. The electrode assembly including a first electrode portion spaced apart from a second electrode portion, for generating an electric field within the membrane disruption space and effecting membrane disruption of a cell of a cellular material-comprising fluid disposed within the membrane disruption space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Inventors: Tofy MUSSIVAND, Bashir Iqbal MORSHED, Maitham SHAMS
  • Patent number: 8231838
    Abstract: The present invention refers to a method of processing a biological fluid which comprises cellular components by heat treatment. The method is particularly useful for preparing biological samples for analyte detection. Further, the invention refers to a processed biological fluid comprising substantially quantitatively disintegrated cellular components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Sebo GmbH
    Inventor: Dietrich Seidel
  • Publication number: 20120190040
    Abstract: The present invention provides a microfluidic devices and methods of use thereof for the concentration and capture of cells. A pulsed non-Faradic electric field is applied relative to a sample under laminar flow, which results to the concentration and capture of charged analyte. Advantageously, pulse timing is selected to avoid problems associated with ionic screening within the channel. At least one of the electrodes within the channel is coated with an insulating layer to prevent a Faradic current from flowing in the channel. Under pulsed application of a unipolar voltage to the electrodes, charged analyte within the sample is moved towards one of the electrodes via a transient electrophoretic force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: QVELLA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Samad Talebpour, Aye Aye Khine, Stephen W. Leonard, Robert Maaskant, Tino Alavie