Universal Sample Preparation Device for Biological Detection

Reliable sample preparation from a variety of complex matrices remains one of the most challenging problems facing biological detection in the field. This is especially true for isolation of nucleic acids from an environmental or clinical sample. A clean nucleic acid sample, free from contaminating materials such as cell debris, dirt and inhibitory chemicals, is required to ensure the robust performance of any given molecular-based detection system. There exists a technology gap for a simple, one-step sample preparation device that will result in a clean nucleic acid sample ready for further biological analysis. Luminex Corporation proposes to develop a completely automated nucleic acid sample preparation module that is rugged, rapid, and easy to use. This device will accept a liquid or swab sample (clinical or environmental), process the sample, and result in an extracted purified nucleic acid sample ready for further analysis. This device will be based on a combination of electrolytic and electrophoretic methods. The instrument will have a small form factor with the capability to be battery operated.