Tube, Bottle, Or Dipstick Patents (Class 436/810)
  • Patent number: 5155024
    Abstract: An analytical element has a peroxidase-labeled ligand analog distributed within a water-soluble binder composition comprising at least about 50 percent, by weight, of poly(vinyl alcohol). As a result, the peroxidase retains more of its stability prior to use. Such elements can be used to determine any of a number of immunologically reactive analytes, such as digoxin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventor: Jon N. Eikenberry
  • Patent number: 5155022
    Abstract: Diagnosis of Lyme disease by immunoassay for anti-Borrelia burgdorferi antibodies in the serum of a patient includes adsorption of crossreactive antibodies in the serum with antigen of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus or Treponema phagedensis prior to binding of anti-Borrelia antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi antigen absorbed onto a solid support. The preferred assay is a flow-through assay using a porous membrane as the support and a dye-loaded liposome conjugated to a goat antihuman antibody for detection. The invention includes a kit of materials for performing the assay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Ali Naqui, Liane F. Gossett, James P. Mapes
  • Patent number: 5145789
    Abstract: A device to determine human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1992
    Assignee: Boehringer Biochemia Robin S.p.A.
    Inventors: Angelo Corti, Paola Piro, Emanuela Carta, Cesare Rovelli, Rosangela Bassi, Sandro Lamponi, Nicola Morgese, Carlo Rurali, Sergio Tognella
  • Patent number: 5141850
    Abstract: An immunoassay method comprising applying an aqueous solution containing the analyte antigen to one end of a multi-zoned test strip device such that the solution moves along the strip by capillary action. The zones are arranged so that the solution (a) first contacts and reconstitutes dry, diffusible labelled component comprising colloidal gold conjugated to an antibody specific for said analyte antigen and then (b) contacts and reconstitutes dry, diffusible biotinylated second antibody specific for said analyte antigen such that a diffusible, dispersed sandwich reaction product forms. The reaction product diffuses along the strip with the solution and into a zone containing capture component consisting of a latex and avidin complex which avidin collects the reaction product by means of reaction with its biotin moiety. Thus, gold particles are collected and concentrated in the detection zone for visual determination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1992
    Assignee: Hygeia Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Francis X. Cole, Eric C. Sigillo, Paul C. MacDonnell, Nancy J. Cicia
  • Patent number: 5139934
    Abstract: A method for enzyme immunoassay of a ligand includes urease as a label. A bound fraction of ligand and antiligand conjugated to urease is formed on a solid support. The urease component of the bound fraction is contacted with a substrate composition for urease which includes a compound converted to ammonia by the urease, a tetrazolium salt and a pH dependent reducing agent which reduces the tetrazolium salt when the pH of the assay medium has been raised by the ammonia. The tetrazolium salt is reduced to a colored insoluble formazan which precipitates as a detectable spot on the support. The invention includes the substrate composition and a kit of materials for performing the assay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1992
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Thomas N. Stewart, Glenn P. Vonk, James P. Mapes
  • Patent number: 5137808
    Abstract: A device is disclosed for conducting an assay method. The device comprises a housing, means enclosed in the housing for capturing a member of a specific binding pair in a zone and for allowing liquid to be transported by capillary action away from the zone, one or more self-contained liquid reagents enclosed in the housing for conducting an assay method for the determination of an analyte in the sample, and means in the housing for introducing the sample into the device. Preferably, the self-contained reagents are liquid reagents which are contained in a breakable container. The device of the invention finds use in assay methods for the determination of an analyte in a sample suspected of containing the analyte. Kits for conducting an assay method are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1992
    Assignee: Syntex (U.S.A.) Inc.
    Inventors: Edwin F. Ullman, Pyare Khanna, Rohan Peries
  • Patent number: 5137690
    Abstract: A process and apparatus for the determination of the iodine content of drinking water by comparing the coloration of the water to be analyzed with that of an iodine reference solution in the presence of a fixed amount of cerium and arsenic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1992
    Assignee: Rhone-Poulenc Sante
    Inventor: Gerard Gernez
  • Patent number: 5137804
    Abstract: This invention relates to an improved assay device and assay for detecting or quantitating the presence or absence of a substance in a sample. The device has multiple layers comprising a permeable layer (a) having a capture reagent attached to less than the entire membrane, a selectively permeable layer (b) which does not allow assay reagents to pass through (b) and an absorbent layer (c). Layer (b) is in communication with layers (a) and (c). Layer (b) has at least one hole extending therethrough and the hole or holes are directly below the capture reagent in layer (a). The area of the hole or the combined area of the holes is less than the area covered by the capture reagent. This invention also relates to a method of reducing background color development in an absorbent layer of an assay device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1992
    Assignee: E. I. Du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Richard A. Greene, Patricia A. Kasila
  • Patent number: 5132206
    Abstract: A general method of assay for biological molecules using daylight fluorescent particles. The method described is applicable to assays involving immunological reagents, nucleic acids, hormones and neurotransmitters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Inventor: William J. Dreyer
  • Patent number: 5132232
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for collecting liquid analytical samples for examination, particularly whole urine and blood samples, and reproducibly separating them into two or more fractions. A sample is disposed within such an apparatus, then staining with dye or reacting with reagent as necessary without dislodging or disturbing the sample within the apparatus, or the arrangement of the apparatus itself. A sample can be transferred from the apparatus which serves as a preparation zone, to a separate analysis zone. An apparatus is shown of a type utilizing a container and a petter, said petter provided with an upper portion which enables attachment to the container, a lower retainer portion including a peripheral aperture, the non-apertured portion of which enables wedge-fit thereof into the container, and a body portion connecting the upper petter portion and lower retainer portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Assignee: V-Tech, Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Parker
  • Patent number: 5126276
    Abstract: A solid phase immuno-assay system for assaying at least one analyte, in the form of a solid support having a plurality of receptors bound thereto. At least two of the receptors conjugate with the same analyte.A reaction container comprising a plurality of longitudinally arranged individual compartments, and a longitudinally extending single compartment.A card for assaying a plurality of samples for the same analyte, having a plurality of receptors for the analyte at different locations on the card.A method of performing an assay for the same analyte in more than one sample, by providing a receptor for the analyte at more than a single location on a solid substrate; exposing each of the receptors to different samples; and developing each of the receptor locations to indicate the presence of the analyte in each of the samples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Inventors: Falk Fish, Max Herzberg, Menachem Ritterband
  • Patent number: 5126242
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the stabilization of biologically active substances which are immobilized on a carrier, where the solid phase with the immobilized biologically active substance is contacted for the stabilization with a solution which contains polyanetholesulfonic acid and/or salts thereof. The biologically active substances are, in particular, antibodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Assignee: Hoechst Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Henning Hachmann, Peter Molz, Stephan Neuenhofer, Gerd Schnorr, Guido Simons, Heinz-Jurgen Skrzipczyk, Kurt E. Weimer
  • Patent number: 5114863
    Abstract: A double antibody sandwich immunosorbent assay for detecting alpha-1-antitrypsin (.alpha..sub.1 AT) comprising the steps of: (1) reacting (a) a first-species-of-animal antibody to .alpha..sub.1 AT with (b) a solid substrate; (2) reacting (a) .alpha..sub.1 AT in a sample suspected of containing .alpha..sub.1 AT with (b) the first-species-of animal polyclonal antibody to .alpha..sub.1 AT; (3) reacting (a) a second-species-of-animal antibody to .alpha..sub.1 AT with (b) the .alpha..sub.1 AT in a sample suspected of containing .alpha..sub.1 AT; (4) reacting (a) a labelled antibody comprising a first-species-of-animal antibody to an antibody from a second species of animal with (b) the second-species-of-animal antibody to .alpha..sub.1 AT; and (5) detecting the amount of labelled first-species-of-animal antibody to antibody from the second species of animal that reacted with the second-species-of-animal polyclonal antibody to .alpha..sub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1992
    Assignee: Board of Supervisors of Louisiana State University & Agricultural & Mechanical College
    Inventors: Candace C. McCombs, Joseph P. Michalski, William R. Gallaher, James J. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5106761
    Abstract: The invention is a method for the detection of molecules in a liquid medium involving the trapping of solid support conjugates. The reactants of the present invention are drawn upward through the device by capillary action against the force of gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Assignee: International Canine Genetics, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew H. Kuniyuki
  • Patent number: 5104811
    Abstract: On a carrier layer there are arranged several test layers which are at least partly in fluid contact with one another, enabling liquid exchange. On the carrier layer are arranged an application zone, a detection zone for the production of a detectable signal characteristic of the analytical determination, which contains at least one said test layer which is a reaction layer, and an absorption zone with a test layer which is an absorptive layer of an absorbent material, wherein the reaction layer and absorption zone are positioned next to each other. Between the application and the absorption zone is a capillary-active transport path on the carrier layer which connects the application zone and the absorption zone. The reaction layer is arranged parallel to the transport path between the application zone and the absorption zone in such a manner that it is in liquid contact with a liquid transported in the transport path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1992
    Assignee: Boehringer Mannheim GmbH
    Inventors: Dieter Berger, Wolfgang-Reinhold Knappe, Robert Lorenz, Henry M. Grage, Jr., Mark T. Skarstedt, Bernward Sojka, Manfred Bleisteiner
  • Patent number: 5104793
    Abstract: The invention relates to a heterogeneous immunoassay which is carried out using a multizoned test device. In particular, the invention involves the use of an inhibitor of a label which is used in the assay. The label which may be an enzyme, is attached to a receptor such as an antibody. The inhibitor is not acted upon by the label, but must be removed in order for a signal to be produced. Also described are test strips which can be used for the assay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1992
    Assignee: Boehringer Mannheim Corporation
    Inventor: Harvey Buck
  • Patent number: 5091153
    Abstract: A chemical analysis test device for detection of a selected chemical in a biological fluid is disclosed wherein the test is preformed on a rigid base containing a detection well for holding a reagent and a specimen well for holding a sample of the biological fluid to be tested. The detection well is positioned above a concentration chamber wherein the cross-sectional area of the chamber increases as the distance from the bottom of the detection well increases. A passage connects the concentration chamber to the detection well. The specimen well has a generally hemispherical interior surface and has an opening in the bottom thereof. A strip of wicking material is secured to the base interconnecting the opening in the specimen well and the concentration chamber. A specimen of the biological fluid to be tested is deposited in the specimen well and contacts the wicking material through the opening in the bottom of the well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1992
    Assignee: Toxi-Lab Incorporated
    Inventor: Steve S. Bachand
  • Patent number: 5089391
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a ligand-receptor assay for determining the presence or amount of at least one target ligand, capable of competing with a ligand analogue conjugate for binding sites available on a ligand receptor, said ligand analogue conjugate comprising at least one ligand analogue coupled to a signal development element capable of emitting a detectable signal, in a fluid sample suspected of containing said target ligand, comprising the steps of:a. contacting said fluid sample with ligand analogue conjugate and ligand receptor to form a reaction mixture, the relative amounts of ligand analogue conjugate and ligand receptor being such that in the absence of target ligand, and subsequent to substantially equilibrium binding, substantially all of the ligand analogue conjugate is bound to ligand receptor;b. detecting the unbound ligand analogue conjugate;c. relating the detectable signal to the presence or amount of target ligand in the fluid sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1992
    Assignee: Biosite Diagnostics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth F. Buechler, Gunars E. Valkirs, Richard R. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5089383
    Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for assays involving members of a specific binding pair ("sbp members") and members of a signal producing system ("sps members"). The signal producing system is capable of producing a detectible signal in relation to the presence or amount of an analyte in a sample suspected of containing the analyte. Exemplary of sps members are enzymes and enzyme substrates, which react with each other to produce a signal. The improvement of the present invention comprises temporarily delaying the production of the signal without subsequent reagent addition. The delay can be achieved by employing an inhibitor which can be an alternate substrate for the enzyme or a compound which reacts with the product of the enzyme and its substrate in an effective amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1992
    Assignee: Syntex (U.S.A.) Inc.
    Inventors: Sydney Leeder, Robert F. Zuk
  • Patent number: 5085988
    Abstract: A method and device for determining the presence of an analyte in a sample suspected of containing the analyte are disclosed. The method involves contracting a test solution containing the sample, an antibody for the analyte, and a conjugate of the analyte and a label with a contact portion of a strip of bibulous material capable of being traversed by the test solution through capillary action. The strip contains a first receptor capable of binding to the conjugate. The first receptor is non-diffusively bound to a situs on the strip separate from the contact portion of the strip. The strip further contains a second receptor capable of binding the antibody to the analyte between the situs and the contact portion. The second receptor is non-diffusively bound to the strip. At least a portion of the test solution is allowed to traverse the strip by capillary action and thereby contact the situs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1992
    Assignee: Syntex (U.S.A.) Inc.
    Inventor: John D. Olson
  • Patent number: 5085987
    Abstract: A method and device for determining the presence of an analyte in a sample suspected of containing the analyte is disclosed. The method involves contacting a test solution containing the sample, an antibody for the analyte, and a conjugate of the analyte and a label with a contact portion of a piece of bibulous material capable of being traversed in at least one direction by the test solution through capillary action. The bibulous material contains a first receptor capable of binding to said conjugate. The first receptor is non-diffusively bound to a situs on the bibulous material separate from the contact portion. The bibulous material further contains a second receptor capable of binding the antibody to the analyte between the situs and the contact portion. The second receptor is non-diffusively bound to the bibulous material. At least a portion of the test solution is allowed to traverse the bibulous material by capillary action and thereby contact the situs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1992
    Assignee: Syntex (U.S.A.) Inc.
    Inventor: John D. Olson
  • Patent number: 5084245
    Abstract: A disposable, pre-packaged device as particularly suitable for conducting diagnostic procedures based on immunological reactions using specimens gathered up in the absorbent tip of a swab. The device is made up of a base component upon which a sample sensitive element is mounted and a guide member that is normally mounted on the base component in covering relationship to the reactive element. The guide member includes structure which defines an elongated passageway extending therethrough. One end of the passageway is positioned in close proximity to the sensitive element when the member is mounted on the base component. The other end of the passageway opens outwardly of the guide member. In using the device, the swab tip is pushed through the passageway and toward the sensitive element using the stick of the swab. A number of ribs are positioned in the passageway adjacent the sensitive element to squeeze the tip and express fluid therefrom as the tip is pushed toward the sensitive element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1992
    Assignee: Hygeia Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl M. Berke, Donald J. Lennon, Paul B. Foster, Gary W. Boys
  • Patent number: 5082790
    Abstract: A scatter signal is produced from light scattered by a precipitate formed by a chemical reaction and non-specific scatter sources. A blanking signal is produced from light scattered only by the non-specific scatter sources that contribute to the scatter signal, and the blanking signal is subtracted from the scatter signal to dynamically produce a signal indicative of the difference between the scatter signals to reduce the effects of non-specific scattering sources in determining the rate of change of the light scattered by the precipitate. One of the scatter signals may be stored and then combined with the other, or the signals may be measured simultaneously and then combined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1992
    Assignee: Beckman Instruments, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul E. Theobald, Daniel B. Seymour, Dobson M. Okawa
  • Patent number: 5081048
    Abstract: An agent or device for the determination of antigen or antibody comprising capsules of a water-insoluble, dye-permeable polymer or a liquor-pool covered by said polymer, an antien, antibody or hapten immobilized on the surface of said polymer, and a dye solution enclosed or held in said capsules or liquor-pool, and a method for determining antigen or antibody using said agent or device, which can be conveniently used for the serodiagnosis of various diseases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1992
    Assignee: The Nisshin Oil Mills, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshio Okahata, Naofumi Takahashi, Takuro Sada
  • Patent number: 5081013
    Abstract: A method of, and a device for performing immune enzyme analyses are described, wherein positiveness or negativeness of an analysis is evaluated by colorimetric comparison of a chromogen zone of determination with a chromogen zone of reference, on which zones reactions are occurring, or not, between the chromogen system and an enzyme conjugated with immunoreactive substances which will reach said zones in different quantities when a sample to be analyzed contains the analyte of which it is desired to acertain the presence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1992
    Assignee: Boehringer Biochemia Robin S.p.A.
    Inventors: Cesare Rovelli, Domenico Brustolin, Paola Piro
  • Patent number: 5079141
    Abstract: The invention comprises a prefilled and presealed apparatus for carrying out chemical, particularly immunochemical, analyses in non-laboratory environments. The apparatus comprises a test base containing therein wells, into which are introduced all the reagents necessary for performing the assay reaction in question. The apparatus further comprises a reagent stick having at one end a sharp reactive point onto which a sample to be assayed can be adsorbed. The base and wells are covered with an impervious foil layer which can easily be pierced with the sharp reactive end of the testing stick included in the apparatus, thereby allowing the adsorbed sample to contact the reagents used in carrying out the assay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1992
    Assignee: Orion Corporation Ltd.
    Inventors: Aimo J. Niskanen, Kauko I. Kahma
  • Patent number: 5077194
    Abstract: A method for the detection of the presence of anti-viral or anti-bacterial antibodies in a specimen and a kit for the same. The method comprises the use of a solid phase support dipstick having attached thereto suitable antigen-binding material to which viral antigens or bacterial antigens are bound. The antibodies specific for the bound antigens bind to the antigen and a second-antibody labelled with a means for visually detecting those antibodies which have formed immunocomplexes with the bound nitrogen when in the presence of suitable reactive agents. Also, a method of using such a dipstick in this method and in the test kit is disclosed. Specifically, boving leukemia virus is tested for; a dipstick attached to a removable closure is employed; and the dipstick has two antigen binding areas, one of which is a control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1991
    Assignee: University of Guelph
    Inventors: Jonathan L. Heeny, Victor E. O. Valli
  • Patent number: 5075215
    Abstract: A general method of assay for biological molecules using daylight fluorescent particles. The method described is applicable to assays involving immunological reagents, nucleic acids, hormones and neurotransmitters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Inventor: William J. Dreyer
  • Patent number: 5073484
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the quantitative determination of an analyte in a liquid employs a liquid-permeable solid medium defining a liquid flow path. The medium includes a number of reaction-containing reaction zones spaced apart along the flow path and in which reaction occurs with the analyte or an analyte derivative (e.g., a labeled analyte) to result in the formation of a predetermined product. Detector means are employed to detect analyte, analyte derivatives, reactant or predetermined product in the reaction zones, the number of such zones in which such detection occurs indicating the amount of analyte in the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1991
    Assignee: Bio-Metric Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Melvin J. Swanson, Patrick E. Guire
  • Patent number: 5061446
    Abstract: The device of the invention comprises a plurality of cartridges (1) containing serum, conjugate, substrate, blocking liquid, and a liquid-receiving well containing an antigen-carrying brush. A processing device (40) for simultaneously processing cartridges (1) considerably reduces the time required for the reaction compared with prior art devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Inventor: Jean Guigan
  • Patent number: 5059525
    Abstract: The present invention provides a dry reagent for blood coagulation tests in which an at least partial course of the coagulation cascade takes place, comprising a carrier material which contains a chromophoric substrate of a protease of the blood coagulation system, at least one factor and/or co-factor of the blood coagulation system and a buffer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Assignee: Boehringer Mannheim GmbH
    Inventors: Knut Bartl, Udo Becker, Helmut Lill, Hans Wielinger
  • Patent number: 5055258
    Abstract: A device for performing immunoassays which has an external housing, a sample container provided with reagents that can be inserted into the external housing, a material container for an absorbent material and membrane-bound antibody or antigen that can be inserted into the sample container, a holder for the material container that can be mounted on the external container, and a spacer that can join the holder and the sample container. When the spacer is in place, the absorbent material is held above the portion of the sample container that holds the sample and when the spacer is removed, the absorbent material is lowered into the sample-containing portion of the sample container. The external housing may also include a container for developer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1991
    Assignee: Flemming GmbH
    Inventors: Rainer Brodt, Gunther Gorka, Peter Fehse, John Reid, Steve Holmes
  • Patent number: 5039607
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for conducting an assay for an analyte. The method comprises causing a specific binding pair member in a first aqueous medium to become bound to a first bibulous member by contacting a portion of the first bibulous member with the medium. The first bibulous member is in liquid receiving relationship with an absorbent member. The contacting is carried out under conditions wherein the first medium traverses the first bibulous member and at least a portion of the absorbent member by capillary action. The method further comprises causing the first bibulous member to come into liquid receiving relationship with a second bibulous member. A reagent in a second aqueous medium is absorbed by and preferably becomes a non-diffusively bound to the second bibulous member in relation to the presence of analyte in the first medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Syntex (U.S.A.) Inc.
    Inventors: Carl N. Skold, Armen B. Shanafelt, Vartan Ghazarossian, Edwin F. Ullman
  • Patent number: 5039487
    Abstract: System for quantifying components in a liquid sample, for example white blood cells in blood, based on use of substantially non-compressible beads of uniform diameter as spacers between a microscope slide and a cover slip. The distance between the slide and cover slip is determined by the diameter of the beads, and thus the volume of the sample being viewed can be precisely determined. Prior to use, the beads may be adhered to a microscope slide or stirring rod in a dried adhesive matrix which is soluble in the liquid sample to be examined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System
    Inventor: Kendall O. Smith
  • Patent number: 5030421
    Abstract: A generally tubular container integrally formed and communicating with a microscope slide member having an enclosed specimen chamber. The container is adapted to serve as a centrifugation tube and a permanent handle for manipulation of the microscope slide member. The back of the device is generally flat and the front and sides of the collection tube are generally rounded except for a concave region extending longitudinally from the upper face of the microscope slide member to provide clearance for rotating a lens turret for high power viewing of a specimen in the slide chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1991
    Assignee: Davstar Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Louis F. Muller
  • Patent number: 5030558
    Abstract: A method for determining the presence of a predetermined minimum detectible amount of one or more analytes in a sample suspected of containing the analyte is disclosed. Each analyte is a member of a specific binding pair ("sbp member") consisting of ligand and its complementary receptor. The method comprises contacting with a test solution containing the sample and predetermined amounts of two or more of a plurality of first sbp members, each respectively analogous to one of the analytes, a contact portion of a piece of bibulous material capable of being traversed in at least one direction by the test solution by capillary migration. The bibulous material contains predetermined amounts of two or more of a plurality of second sbp members, each respectively capable of binding one of the analytes and corresponding first sbp member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1991
    Assignee: Syntex (U.S.A.) Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Litman, Thomas M. Li, Laura L. Buelteman, Emmy T. Wong
  • Patent number: 5030555
    Abstract: For the serodiagnosis of a fluid sample, it is particularly advantageous to use a device comprising (A) a supported, porous membrane wherein a first immunoreagent is bound so as to be capable of binding a foreign analyte and forming a complex when the foreign analyte is brought into contact therewith; and (B) a matrix which presents a first surface and an opposing second surface and which contains a second, labeled immunoreagent that is capable of binding the foreign analyte to form a labeled complex when the foreign analyte is sandwiched between the first immunoreagent and the second immunoreagent. In such a device, the first surface of the matrix is adjacent to a surface of the membrane, (ii) the matrix is wettable by or soluble in an aqueous fluid, and (iii) the second immunoreagent is mobilized when the matrix is wetted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1991
    Assignee: University of Florida
    Inventor: Roger M. Clemmons
  • Patent number: 5028535
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a ligand-receptor assay for determining the presence or amount of at least one target ligand, capable of competing with a ligand analogue conjugate for binding sites available on a ligand receptor, said ligand analogue conjugate comprising at least one ligand analogue coupled to a signal development element capable of emitting a detectable signal, in a fluid sample suspected of containing said target ligand, comprising the steps of:a. contacting said fluid sample with ligand analogue conjugate and ligand receptor to form a reaction mixture, the relative amounts of ligand analogue conjugate and ligand receptor being such that in the absence of target ligand, and subsequent to substantially equilibrium binding, substantially all of the ligand analogue conjugate is bound to ligand receptor;b. detecting the unbound ligand analogue conjugate;c. relating the detectable signal to the presence or amount of target ligand in the fluid sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1991
    Assignee: Biosite Diagnostics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth F. Buechler, Gunars E. Valkirs, Richard R. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5017342
    Abstract: An assay device is provided which includes a support, generally planar and elongated in shape, upon which a biological binding reaction may take place. This assay support includes in its broadest aspect, three sections, a sample receiving well section at one end and a gripping section at the opposite end, with a connecting section therebetween. The sample receiving well section includes at least two spaced-apart receiving wells, generally at the end of the assay support, for the addition of binding reactants. Each of the wells has an open end on a first face of the support, a concave inner surface extending concavely into the support, and a convex outer surface which projects convexly from an opposed face of the support. These wells may serve as a depository to contain aliquots of binding reagents, as well as a sample under analysis, the sample under analysis possibly containing a substance that will bind to the binding reagents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1991
    Assignee: Ortho Diagnostic Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Cecelia Haberzettl, Jack Geltosky, Renee Perst
  • Patent number: 5017473
    Abstract: A method for separation-free solid phase immunoassay of an analyte includes contacting an antianalyte attached to the surface of a solid support with the analyte, a light absorbing material and a tracer for the analyte which includes a label. The resulting mixture is incubated and chemiluminescence is generated. All of the chemiluminescence is absorbed by the light absorbing material except that associated with the bound tracer whereby the only emission detected is due to the bound tracer. Since emission from free tracer in the fluid phase of the assay medium is not detected, separation of the bound and free fractions is unnecessary. The invention includes a kit of materials useful in performing an immunoassay in accordance with the method of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1991
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventor: Daniel B. Wagner
  • Patent number: 5009998
    Abstract: The method described coats the interior of a tube-like support with the binding partner of the analyte. Analyte and anti-analyte-label conjugate are added. When the tube-like support is rotated end-over-end, the thin layer of analyte and conjugate readily react with the binding partners to form an immobilized label complex. When rotation stops, the reaction quenches to provide precise timing. The label complex is released and measured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1991
    Assignee: E. I. Du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Allan T. Chow, Michael A. G. Luddy
  • Patent number: 5006458
    Abstract: A dry-type analytical element suitable for measuring enzyme activity of in a liquid sample, characterized by incorporating a polyacrylamide, polymethacrylamide or their derivatives into at least one water-permeable layer. The background concentration of the dry-type analytical element exhibits minimal increase even under a fluorescent light, and allows an accurate measured value to be easily obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1991
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Keiko Kato, Shigeki Kageyama, Yoshikazu Amano, Fuminori Arai, Harumi Katsuyama
  • Patent number: 5004685
    Abstract: A dry-type multilayer analytical element containing a color reagent composition comprising an oxidase specifically reaction with an analyte or derived therefrom to produce hydrogen peroxide, hydrogen peroxide-decomposing enzyme, an alkali metal salt of ferrocyanide and a chromogen which is separated from the hydrogen peroxide-decomposing enzyme, the chromogen being incorporated in a layer nearer to the transparent support of the analytical element than the layer containing the hydrogen peroxide-decomposing enzyme. The analytical element exhibits excellent coloration, color stability, and accuracy and the results are minimally influenced by the presence of hemoglobin in the sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1991
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fuminori Arai, Asaji Kondo
  • Patent number: 4999163
    Abstract: A disposable, pre-packaged device for conducting an immunoassay procedure that results in the production of separable liquid and solid phases. The device includes a cup having an inlet and presenting a liquid phase receiving chamber. An absorbent for liquid phase materials is in the chamber and a series of ribs hold the absorbent away from the walls of the chamber providing a breathing space extending around the absorbent. A porous capture media element for capturing and displaying solid phase products of the procedure is disposed adjacent the inlet of the device in fluid communication with the absorbent so that in operation the absorbent promotes flow of liquid phase through the capture element. A lid element is mounted on the cup adjacent the inlet and the lid and the cup are held together by welding of annular flanges. The lid element includes an elongated cylindrical member extending through the inlet and defining a throat for directing flow of liquid phase onto the capture media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1991
    Assignee: Hygeia Sciences, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald J. Lennon, Timothy C. Murphy, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4994373
    Abstract: Polynucleotide sequences in a sample of biological or nonbiological material are detected by a method involving fixing of the sequences on a solid support and forming an entity between the fixed sequences and chemically-labeled polynucleotide or oligonucleotide probes having a sequence complementary to the fixed sequence for determining the identification and/or presence of the target polynucleotide sequences. The chemical label covalently or noncovalently attached to the probe comprises a signalling moiety capable of generating a soluble signal detectable by spectrophotometric assay techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1991
    Assignee: Enzo Biochem, Inc.
    Inventors: Jannis G. Stavrianopoulos, Dollie Kirtikar, Kenneth H. Johnston, Barbara E. Thalenfeld
  • Patent number: 4981786
    Abstract: A device is disclosed for conducting an assay. The device comprises a housing, means enclosed in the housing for capturing a first member of a specific binding pair (sbp) in a zone and for allowing liquid to be transported by capillary action away from the zone, first means in the housing for introducing the sample into the device, and second means in the housing other than the first means for introducing a liquid reagent other than the sample into the device. The device of the invention finds use in assay methods for the determination of an analyte in a sample suspected of containing the analyte. Kits for conducting an assay are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1991
    Assignee: Syntex (U.S.A.) Inc.
    Inventors: Geoffrey A. Dafforn, Nurith Kurn, Martin Becker, Edwin F. Ullman
  • Patent number: 4981653
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an analytical reagent test strip for assaying fluid samples. The reagent test strip of this invention has a self-indicating format which provides accurate and reliable results without the need for a color chart or instrument analysis. In the preferred embodiment of this invention, reagent threads are incorporated into and protrude through a polymer housing. The threads are placed in a particular pattern whereby different colored configurations will occur in response to different concentrations of analyte in a sample. The present invention is accurate, reliable and convenient to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1991
    Assignee: Miles Inc.
    Inventor: Rebecca A. Marino
  • Patent number: 4980298
    Abstract: A device for carrying out chemical or clinical testing of a liquid sample, for example a urine sample, by a specific binding assay, said device comprising a test compoenent (2) which has a sensitised solid surface (2a) carrying an immobilized component of a specific binding pair relevant to the essay, and a handling piece (1), and characterized in that the test component (2) bearing the sensitized surface (2a) is removably mounted in spaced relationship with a removably mounted accessory component (4) carrying an accessory solid surface (5), and in that there is a space (4a) between the sensitized surface (2a) and the removable accessory component (4) to act as a container for sample liquid, so that when the device is contacted with a sample liquid source or immersed in liquid which is to provide the test sample, liquid of the sample can enter the space (4a) to contact the sensitized surface (2a), and the accessory surface (5) acts to retain and contain sample liquid in contact with the sensitized surface (2a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 25, 1990
    Assignee: Unilever Patent Holdings B.V.
    Inventors: Anthony Blake, John Coley, Ronald Smith
  • Patent number: 4980278
    Abstract: A method for analyzing antigen or antibody contained in a sample by introducing a first end surface of at least one measuring light guide member and a second end surface of at least one reference light guide member in the sample. Each of said measuring and reference light guide members being coated with a protection layer except for said first and second end surfaces and an other end surface of respect light guides. Only on said first end surface of the measuring light guide member being fixed an antigen or antibody which is specifically reactive with the antigen or antibody contained in the sample to effect an antigen-antibody reaction. Photoelectrically detecting optical properties of said first and second end surfaces of the measuring and reference light guide members, respectively, by transmitting light through the meauring and reference light guide members to derive detection signals as a measure of antigen or antibody in the sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 25, 1990
    Assignee: Olympus Optical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Yamada, Nobutaka Kaneko, Takashi Tabara, Takeo Takahashi
  • Patent number: 4976923
    Abstract: A fluid testing apparatus including a specimen cup and a cover having a reagent portion which is color sensitive to an analytical characteristic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 11, 1990
    Assignee: Rhode Island Hospital
    Inventors: Milton H. Lipsky, Andrew Rosner