SAMPLE PREPARATION METHODS AND SYSTEMS

Abstract

Methods and systems to prepare a sample, including a relatively small amount of a biological sample, and to mix the sample with preparation fluid stored in a device. The device may include multiple fluid chambers and a stepped plunger to force a fluid in at least one of the chambers into a sample receiving chamber and then to a storage chamber. Methods and systems disclosed herein may be implemented to collect and controllable mix a sample for analysis and/or storage.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

Disclosed herein are methods and systems to receive and assay a sample.

BACKGROUND

Many disease states can be diagnosed based on the presence or absence of certain predetermined indicators in a patient's sample, such as blood. Most of these diagnostic tests require significantly less sample volume than is collected for the test, but because of the time delay from collection to testing, enough sample must be collected to ensure a test can be run. Most of the time, separation of cellular components from the sample is needed, the sample must be centrifuged, filtered, etc. to extract the required components. Blood used for testing is usually extracted from a patient via hypodermic needle and collected in a test tube for shipment to a lab, where various tests are done on the blood sample.

For tests that only require <250 ul of blood sample, it is easier for the patient and health care provider to use a finger stick to produce a single drop of blood, but this small amount of blood cannot be easily transported to a lab. If the testing method cannot be used at the same time the blood is extracted—for instance, like a glucose measurement—a method of capturing, prepping, and preserving this small amount of blood is needed.

SUMMARY

Disclosed herein are methods and systems to collect and prepare relatively small volume samples.

A system may include a sample collection region to receive a sample, a cover to enclose the sample collection region, and one or more movable plunger(s) to force fluid(s) through the sample collection region and to one or more of a storage region, a reaction chamber and/or other location, where the resultant sample containing fluid may be prepared and/or assayed within the system, and/or stored, such as for transportation to a lab. The sample collection region may include a blood collection region to directly contact a patient's finger.

Systems and methods disclosed herein may be implemented with respect to self-contained, point-of-care, portable, point-of-care, user-initiated fluidic assay systems.

Example assays include diagnostic assays and chemical detection assays. Diagnostic assays include, without limitation, enzyme-linked immuno-sorbent assays (ELISA), and may include one or more sexually transmitted disease (STD) diagnostic assays.

An example assay system includes a housing having one or more fluid chambers, a fluid controller system to dispense fluid from the one or more fluid chambers, and a user-initiated actuator to control the fluid controller system. The assay apparatus may include a display window to view assay results.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS/FIGURES

In the drawings, like reference numbers indicate identical or functionally similar elements. Additionally, the leftmost digit(s) of a reference number identifies the drawing in which the reference number first appears.

FIG. 1 is a process flowchart of a method of performing an assay with a substantially self-contained, point-of-care, user-initiated fluidic assay system.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a portable, point-of-care, user-initiated fluidic assay system.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portable, point-of-care, user-initiated fluidic assay system 300.

FIG. 4 is a process flowchart of a method of preparing a portable, point-of-care, user-initiated fluidic assay system.

FIG. 5 is a process flowchart of a method of using an assay system prepared in accordance with FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another assay system 600, including a cover illustrated in a first position.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of assay system 600, including plungers 702, 704, and 706, wherein the cover is illustrated in the second position.

FIG. 8 is another cross-sectional view of assay system 600, wherein plungers 702, 704, and 706 are in corresponding initial or first positions.

FIG. 9 is another cross-sectional view of assay system 600, wherein plungers 702, 704, and 706 are in respective first intermediate positions.

FIG. 10 is another cross-sectional view of assay system 600, wherein plunger 704 is in a second position, and plungers 702 and 704 are in respective second intermediate positions.

FIG. 11 is another cross-sectional view of assay system 600, wherein plungers 702, 704 and 706 are in respective second positions.

FIG. 12 is an expanded cross-sectional view of a portion of assay system 600, including a portion of plunger 706 in the first position corresponding to FIG. 8.

FIG. 13 is another expanded cross-sectional view of a portion assay system 600, including a portion of plunger 706 in the intermediate position corresponding to FIG. 9.

FIG. 14 is another expanded cross-sectional view of a portion of assay system 600, including a portion of plunger 706 in the second position corresponding to FIGS. 10 and 11.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional perspective view of another assay system.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional perspective view of another assay system.

FIG. 17 is cross-sectional view of a mechanical actuator system.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a sample collection system.

FIG. 19 is another perspective view of the sample collection system.

FIG. 20A is a cross-sectional view of the sample collection system, wherein a plunger is illustrated in a first position.

FIG. 20B is another cross-sectional view of the sample collection system, wherein the plunger is illustrated in a second position.

FIG. 21A is a perspective view of another sample collection system.

FIG. 21B is a cross-sectional view of the sample collection system of FIG. 21A.

In the drawings, the leftmost digit(s) of a reference number may identify the drawing in which the reference number first appears.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Methods and systems to collect and prepare samples are described herein with respect to example point-of-care, user-initiated fluidic assay methods and systems, for illustrative purposes. The methods and systems to collect samples are not, however, limited to the assay methods and systems disclosed herein. Based on the teachings herein, one skilled in the art will understand that the methods and system to collect samples may be implemented with respect to other assay systems, including diagnostic assays and chemical assays.

An immunoassay is a biochemical test to detect a substance, or measure a concentration of a substance, in a biological sample such as blood, saliva, or urine, using a reaction between an antibody and an antigen specific to the antibody.

An immunoassay may be used to detect the presence of an antigen or an antibody. For example, when detecting an infection, the presence of an antibody against the pathogen may be measured. When detecting hormones such as insulin, the insulin may be used as the antigen.

Accordingly, where a method or system is described herein to detect a primary binding pair molecule using a corresponding second binding pair molecule, it should be understood that the primary binding pair molecule may be an antibody or an antigen, and the second binding pair molecule may be a corresponding antigen or antibody, respectively. Similarly, where a method or system is described herein to detect an antibody or antigen, the method or system may be implemented to detect a corresponding antigen or antibody, respectively.

Immunoassays may also be used to detect potential food allergens and chemicals, or drugs.

Immunoassays include labeled immunoassays to provide a visual indication of a binding pair of molecules. Labeling may include an enzyme, radioisotopes, magnetic labels, fluorescence, agglutination, nephelometry, turbidimetry and western blot.

Labeled immunoassays include competitive and non-competitive immunoassays. In a competitive immunoassay, an antigen in a sample competes with labeled antigen to bind with antibodies. The amount of labeled antigen bound to the antibody site is inversely proportional to the concentration of antigen in the sample. In noncompetitive immunoassays, also referred to as sandwich assays, antigen in a sample is bound to an antibody site. The labeled antibody is then bound to the antigen. The amount of labeled antibody on the site is directly proportional to the concentration of the antigen in the sample.

Labeled immunoassays include enzyme-linked immuno-sorbent assays (ELISA).

In an example immunoassay, a biological sample is tested for a presence of a primary binding pair molecule. A corresponding binding pair molecule that is specific to the primary binding pair molecule is immobilized on an assay substrate. The biological sample is contacted to the assay substrate. Any primary binding pair molecules in the biological sample attach to, or are captured by the corresponding binding pair molecules. The primary binding pair molecules are also contacted with labeled secondary binding pair molecules that attach to the primary binding pair molecules. This may be performed subsequent to, prior to, or simultaneously with the contacting of the primary binding pair molecule with the corresponding immobilized binding pair molecule. Un-reacted components of the biological sample and fluids may be removed, or washed from the assay substrate. Presence of the label on the assay substrate indicates the presence of the primary binding pair molecule in the biological sample.

The label may include a directly detectable label, which may be visible to a human observer, such as gold particles in a colloid or solution, commonly referred to as colloidal gold.

The label may include an indirect label, such an enzyme whereby the enzyme works on a substrate to produce a detectable reaction product. For example, an enzyme may attach to the primary binding pair molecule, and a substance that the enzyme converts to a detectable signal, such as a fluorescence signal, is contacted to the assay substrate. When light is directed at the assay substrate, any binding pair molecule complexes will fluoresce so that the presence of the primary binding pair molecule is observable.

An immunoassay may utilize one or more fluid solutions, which may include a dilutent solution to fluidize the biological sample, a conjugate solution having the labeled secondary binding pair molecules, and one or more wash solutions. The biological sample and fluids may be brought into contact, concurrently or sequentially with the assay substrate. The assay substrate may include an assay surface or an assay membrane, prepared with a coating of the corresponding binding pair molecules.

As described above, the second binding pair molecules may include an antigen that is specific to an antibody to be detected in a biological sample, or may include antibody that is specific to an antigen to be detected in the biological sample. By way of illustration, if the primary binding pair molecule to be detected is an antigen, the immobilized binding pair molecule and the secondary labeled binding pair molecule will be antibodies, both of which react with the antigen. When the antigen is present in the biological sample, the antigen will be immobilized by the immobilized antibody and labeled by the labeled secondary antibody, to form a sandwich-like construction, or complex.

It is known that non-specific or un-reacted components may be beneficially removed using wash solutions, often between processes and/or prior to a label detection process, in order to improve sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratios of the assay. Other permutations are possible as well. For example, a conjugate solution, such as a labeled secondary binding pair molecule solution may be mixed with or act as a sample dilutent to advantageously transport the biological sample to the assay substrate, to permit simultaneous binding of the primary binding pair molecule and the labeled secondary binding pair molecule to the immobilized binding pair molecule. Alternatively, or additionally, the sample dilutent may include one or more detergents and/or lysing agents to advantageously reduce deleterious effects of other components of the biological sample such as cellular membranes, non-useful cells like erythrocytes and the like.

Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that such fluid components and the order of the reactionary steps may be readily adjusted along with concentrations of the respective components in order to optimize detection or distinguishment of analytes, increase sensitivity, reduce non-specific reactions, and improve signal to noise ratios.

As will be readily understood, if the secondary antibody is labeled with an enzyme instead of a fluorescent or other immediately detectable label, an additional substrate may be utilized to allow the enzyme to produce a reaction product which will be advantageously detectable. An advantage of using an enzyme based label is that the detectable signal may increase over time as the enzyme works on an excess of substrate to produce a detectable product.

FIG. 1 is a process flowchart of a method 100 of detecting a primary binding pair molecule in a biological sample, using a substantially self-contained, point-of-care, user-initiated fluidic assay system. The primary binding pair molecule may correspond to an antibody or an antigen.

At 102, a biological sample is provided to the assay system. The biological sample may include one or more of a blood sample, a saliva sample, and a urine sample. The biological sample may be applied to a sample substrate within the assay system.

At 104, a fluidic actuator within the assay system is initiated by a user. The fluidic actuator may include a mechanical actuator, such as a compressed spring actuator, and may be initiated with a button, switch, or lever. The fluidic actuator may be configured to impart one or more of a physical force, pressure, centripetal force, gas pressure, gravitational force, and combinations thereof, on a fluid controller system within the assay system.

At 106, the biological sample is fluidized with a dilutent fluid. The dilutent fluid may flow over or through the sample substrate, under control of the fluid controller system.

At 108, the fluidized biological sample is contacted to a corresponding binding pair molecule that is specific to primary binding pair molecule. The corresponding binding pair molecule may be immobilized on an assay substrate within the assay system. The fluidized biological sample may flow over or through the assay substrate, under control of the fluid controller system.

Where the fluidized biological sample includes the primary binding pair molecule, the primary binding pair molecule attaches to the corresponding binding pair molecule and becomes immobilized on the assay substrate. For example, where the second binding pair molecule includes a portion of a pathogen, and where the biological sample includes an antibody to the pathogen, the antibody attaches to the antigen immobilized at the assay substrate.

At 110, a labeled conjugate solution is contacted to the assay substrate, under control of the fluid controller system. The labeled conjugate solution includes a secondary binding pair molecule to bind with the primary binding pair molecule. Where the primary binding pair molecule is immobilized on the assay substrate with the corresponding binding pair molecule, the secondary binding pair molecule attaches to the immobilized primary binding pair molecule, effectively creating a sandwich-like construct of the primary binding pair molecule, the corresponding binding pair molecule, and the labeled secondary binding pair molecule.

The secondary binding pair molecule may be selected as one that targets one or more proteins commonly found in the biological sample. For example, where the biological sample includes a human blood sample, the secondary binding pair molecule may include an antibody generated by a non-human animal in response to the one or more proteins commonly found in human blood.

The secondary binding pair molecule may be labeled with human-visible particles, such as a gold colloid, or suspension of gold particles in a fluid such as water. Alternatively, or additionally, the secondary binding pair molecule may be labeled with a fluorescent probe.

Where the labeled secondary binding pair molecule attaches to a primary binding pair molecule that is attached to a corresponding binding pair molecule, at 110, the label is viewable by the user at 112.

Method 100 may be implemented to perform multiple diagnostic assays in an assay system. For example, a plurality of antigens, each specific to a different antibody, may be immobilized on one or more assay substrates within an assay system. Similarly, a plurality of antibodies, each specific to a different antigen, may be immobilized on one or more assay substrates within an assay system

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a portable, point-of-care, user-initiated fluidic assay system 200, including a housing 202, a user-initiated actuator 204, a fluidic pump 206, and an assay result viewer 218.

Pump 206 includes one or more fluid chambers 210, to contain fluids to be used in an assay. One or more of fluid chambers 210 may have, without limitation, a volume in a range of 0.5 to 2 milliliters.

Pump 206 includes a sample substrate 214 to hold a sample. Sample substrate 214 may include a surface or a membrane positioned within a cavity or a chamber of housing 202, to receive one or more samples, as described above.

Sample substrate 214 may include a porous and/or absorptive material, which may be configured to absorb a volume of liquid in a range of 10 to 500 μL, including within a range of up to 200 μL, and including a range of approximately 25 to 50 μL.

Pump 206 includes an assay substrate 216 to hold an assay material. Assay substrate 216 may include a surface or a membrane positioned within a cavity or chamber of housing 202, to receive one or more assay compounds or biological components, such as an antigen or an antibody, as described above.

Fluid chambers 210 may include a waste fluid chamber.

Pump 206 further includes a fluid controller system 208, which may include a plurality of fluid controllers, to control fluid flow from one or more fluid chambers 212 to one or more of sample substrate 214 and assay substrate 216, responsive to actuator 204.

Actuator 204 may include a mechanical actuator, which may include a compressed or compressible spring actuator, and may include a button, switch, lever, twist-activator, or other user-initiated feature.

Assay result viewer 218 may include a display window disposed over an opening through housing 202, over assay substrate 216.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portable, point-of-care, user-initiated fluidic assay system 300, including a housing 302, a user-initiated actuator button 304, a sample substrate 306, and a sample substrate cover 308. Sample substrate cover 308 may be hingedly coupled to housing 302.

Assay system 300 further includes an assay result viewer 310, which may be disposed over an assay substrate. Assay result view 310 may be disposed at an end of assay system 300, as illustrated in FIG. 3, or along a side of assay system 300.

Assay system 300 may have, without limitation, a length in a range of 5 to 8 centimeters and a width of approximately 1 centimeter. Assay system 300 may have a substantially cylindrical shape, as illustrated in FIG. 3, or other shape.

Assay system 300, or portions thereof, may be implemented with one or more substantially rigid materials, and/or with one or more flexible or pliable materials, including, without limitation, polypropylene.

Example portable, point-of-care, user-initiated fluidic assay systems are disclosed further below.

FIG. 4 is a process flowchart of a method 400 of preparing a portable, point-of-care, user-initiated fluidic assay system. Method 400 is described below with reference to assay system 200 in FIG. 2, for illustrative purposes. Method 400 is not, however, limited to the example of FIG. 2.

At 402, a binding pair molecule is immobilized on an assay substrate, such as assay substrate 216 in FIG. 2. The binding pair molecule may include an antigen specific to an antibody, or an antibody specific to an antigen.

At 404, a first one of fluid chambers 210 is provided with a dilutent solution to fluidize a sample.

At 406, a second one of fluid chambers 210 is provided with a labeled secondary binding pair molecule solution.

At 408, a third one of fluid chambers 210 is provided with a wash solution, which may include one or more of a saline solution and a detergent. The wash solution may be substantially similar to the dilutent solution.

FIG. 5 is a process flowchart of a method 500 of using an assay system prepared in accordance with method 400. Method 500 is described below with reference to assay system 200 in FIG. 2, and assay system 300 in FIG. 3, for illustrative purposes. Method 500 is not, however, limited to the examples of FIG. 2 and FIG. 3.

At 502, a sample is provided to a sample substrate, such as sample substrate 214 in FIG. 2, and sample substrate 306 in FIG. 3.

At 504, a user-initiated actuator is initiated by the user, such as user-initiated activator 204 in FIG. 2, and button 304 in FIG. 3. The user initiated actuator acts upon a fluid controller system, such as fluid controller system 208 in FIG. 2.

At 506, the dilutent solution flows from first fluid chamber and contacts the sample substrate and the assay substrate, under control of the fluid controller system.

As the dilutent fluid flows over or through the sample substrate, the sample is dislodged from the sample substrate and flows with the dilutent solution to the assay substrate.

At 508, the labeled secondary binding pair solution flows from the second fluid chamber and contacts the assay substrate, under control of the fluid controller system. The labeled secondary binding pair solution may flow directly to the assay substrate or may flow over or through the sample substrate.

At 510, the wash solution flows from the third fluid chamber and washes the assay substrate, under control of fluid controller system 208. The wash solution may flow from the assay substrate to a waste fluid chamber,

At 512, assay results are viewable, such as at assay result viewer 218 in FIG. 2, and assay result viewer 310 in FIG. 3.

An assay substrate may include a nitrocellulose-based membrane, available from Invitrogen Corporatation, of Carlsbad, Calif.

Preparation of a nitrocellulose-based membrane may include incubation for approximately thirty (30) minutes in a solution of 0.2 mg/mL protein A, available from Sigma-Aldrich Corporation, of St. Louis, Mo., in a phosphate buffered saline solution (PBS), and then dried at approximately 37° for approximately fifteen (15) minutes. 1 μL of PBS may be added to the dry membrane and allowed to dry at room temperature. Alternatively, 1 μL of an N-Hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) solution, available from Sigma-Aldrich Corporation, of St. Louis, Mo., may be added to the dry membrane and allowed to dry at room temperature.

An assay method and/or system may utilize or include approximately 100 μL of PBS/0.05% Tween wash buffer, available from Sigma-Aldrich Corporation, of St. Louis, Mo., and may utilize or include approximately 100 μL of protein G colloidal gold, available from Pierce Corporation, of Rockland, Ill.

An assay method and/or system may be configured to test for Chlamydia, and may utilize or include a sample membrane treated with wheat germ agglutinin, to which an approximately 50 μL blood sample is applied. Approximately 150 μL of a lysing solution may then be passed through the sample membrane and then contacted to an assay substrate. Thereafter, approximately 100 μL of a colloidal gold solution may be contacted to the assay substrate. Thereafter, approximately 500 μL of a wash solution, which may include the lysing solution, may be contacted to the assay membrane without passing through the sample membrane.

Additional example assay features and embodiments are disclosed below. Based on the description herein, one skilled in the relevant art(s) will understand that features and embodiments described herein may be practiced in various combinations with one another.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an assay system 600, including a body 602 having a sample collection region 604 to receive a sample collection pad or membrane 606, which may include a porous material such as, for example, a glass fiber pad, to absorb a fluid sample.

In the example of FIG. 6, sample collection region 604 is positioned between first and second O-rings 608 and 610, and system 600 includes a cover 612 slideably moveable relative to body 602, between a first position illustrated in FIG. 6, and a second position described below with reference to FIG. 7.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of assay system 600, wherein cover 612 is illustrated in the second position, and sample collection region 604 is bounded by an outer surface of body 602, an inner-surface of cover 612, and O-rings 608 and 610. O-rings 608 and 610 may provide a hermetic seal between sample collection region 604 and an external environment. When cover 612 is in the second position, sample collection region 604 may be referred to as a sample collection chamber.

In FIG. 6, sample collection region 604 includes openings 614 and 616 through the surface of body 602 associated with fluid passages within body 602. Opening 614 may be positioned adjacent to sample collection pad 606, and opening 616 may be positioned beneath sample collection pad 606. System 600 may be configured to provide a fluid through opening 614 into sample collection region 604 and to receive the fluid from sample collection region 604 through opening 616, to cause the fluid to pass through sample collection pad 606.

Body 602 may include an assay region 618 formed or etched within the surface of body 602, having an opening 620 through the surface of body 602 to receive fluid from an associated fluid passage. Assay region 618 may include one or more additional openings to corresponding fluid passages within body 602, illustrated here as openings 622, 624, and 626, to permit the fluid to exit assay region 618.

Assay region 618 may be configured to receive a test membrane having one or more reactive areas, each reactive area positioned on the test membrane in alignment with a corresponding one of openings 622, 624, and 626.

System 600 may include a substantially transparent cover to enclose assay region 618, such as to permit viewing of the test membrane, or portions thereof. The cover may include one or more fluid channels to direct fluid from opening 620 to the membrane areas aligned with openings 622, 624, and 626. Where system 600 includes a cover over assay region 618, assay region 618 may be referred to as an assay chamber.

In FIG. 7, system 600 includes plungers 702, 704, and 706. Plunger 706 is illustrated here as a multi-diameter or stepped plunger. Plunger 702 includes O-rings 708 and 710. Plunger 704 includes an O-ring 712. Plunger 706 includes O-rings 714 and 716. O-rings 708, 710, 712, 714, and 716 may be sized to engage corresponding inner surface portions of body 602. Plungers 702, 704, and 706 are each moveable within body 602 between respective first and second positions and, together with the inner surfaces of body 602, define fluid chambers 718, 720, 722, and 724.

In the example of FIG. 7, body 602 includes fluid passages 726 and 728 between corresponding openings 614 and 616 and fluid chamber 724, a fluid passage 730 between fluid chamber 724 and opening 620 of assay region 618, and fluid passages between each of openings 622, 624, and 626 of assay region 618 and a waste chamber 740. Waste chamber 740 may include an absorptive material to receive fluid from one or more fluid chambers of system 600. Body 602 may include a fluid passage 742 between waste chamber 740 and the outer surface of body 602, such as to release air displaced by fluid received within waste chamber 740.

Body 602 may include one or more of fluid passages 744, 746, and 748 in fluid communication with corresponding fluid chambers 718, 720, and 722. One or more of fluid passages 744, 746, and 748 may have an opening through the outer surface of body 602, which may be used to provide one or more assay fluids to a corresponding fluid chamber during preparation procedure. Such an opening through the outer surface of body 602 may be plugged or sealed subsequent to the preparation procedure, such as illustrated in FIGS. 8-11. Alternatively, or additionally, one or more of fluid passages 744, 746, and 748 may include an opening to another fluid chamber of system 600, such as to provide a fluid bypass around one or more other fluid chambers and/or plungers.

Example operation of system 600 is described below with reference to FIGS. 8-14.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of system 600, wherein plungers 702, 704, and 706 are in corresponding initial or first positions.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of system 600, wherein plungers 702, 704, and 706 are in respective first intermediate positions.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of system 600, wherein plunger 704 is in a second position, and plungers 702 and 704 are in respective second intermediate positions.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of system 600, wherein plungers 702, 704 and 706 are in respective second positions.

FIGS. 8-11 may represent sequential positioning of plungers 702, 704 and 706 in response to a force in a direction 750 of FIG. 7.

FIG. 12 is an expanded view of a portion of system 600, including a portion of plunger 706 in the first position corresponding to FIG. 8.

FIG. 13 is an expanded view of a of portion system 600, including a portion of plunger 706 in the intermediate position corresponding to FIG. 9, and including fluid directional arrows.

FIG. 14 is an expanded view of a portion of system 600, including a portion of plunger 706 in the second position corresponding to FIGS. 10 and 11.

During a preparation process, fluid chambers 718, 720, and 722, may be provided with corresponding first, second, and third fluids, and fluid chamber 724 may provided with a gas, such as air. The fluids in one or more of fluid chambers 718, 720, and 722 may be relatively incompressible compared with the gas in fluid chamber 724.

In FIG. 8, when the force is applied to plunger 702 in direction 750, the relatively incompressibility of the fluids in fluid chambers 718 and 720 transfer the force to plunger 706. Plungers 702, 704, and 706 may move together in direction 750.

As plungers 702, 704, and 706 move in direction 750, fluid within fluid chamber 724, which may include air, travels from fluid chamber 724, through fluid passage 730 to assay chamber 732, and through fluid passages 734, 736, and 738 to waste chamber 740.

Prior to O-ring 716 of plunger 706 passing an opening 1202 (FIG. 12) of fluid passage 726, fluid chamber 722 is substantially isolated and no fluid flows from fluid chamber 722 to fluid channel 728 or from fluid chamber 722 to fluid chamber 724.

As O-ring 716 of plunger 706 moves towards opening 1202, and as fluid chamber 722 is correspondingly moved in direction 750 into a narrower-diameter inner surface portion of body 602, a volume of fluid chamber 722 decreases. The reduced volume of fluid chamber 722 may increase a pressure of the fluid within fluid chamber 722. The fluid within fluid chamber 722 may include a combination of a relatively incompressible fluid and relatively compressible fluid, such as air, which may compress in response to the increased pressure.

In FIG. 9, when O-ring 716 is positioned between opening 1202 of fluid passage 726 and an opening 1204 of fluid passage 730, fluid chamber 722 is in fluid communication with fluid channel 726, while O-ring 716 precludes fluid flow directly between fluid chambers 722 and 724. The fluid in fluid chamber 722 may thus travel from fluid chamber 722, through fluid passage 726 to sample collection region 604, through fluid passage 728 to fluid chamber 724, through fluid passage fluid passage 730 to assay region 618, and through openings 722, 724, and 726 to waste chamber 740.

The fluid from fluid chamber 722 may contact and dislodge at least a portion of a sample contained within a sample pad 606, and may carry the sample to assay region 618, where the sample may react with a test membrane.

In FIG. 10, as plunger 706 reaches the second position and O-ring 716 passes opening 1204, a recess 1002 within an inner surface of body 602 provides a fluid passage around O-ring 714. Fluid within fluid chamber 720 travels through recess 1002, alongside plunger 706, through fluid passage 730 to assay chamber 732, and through fluid passages 734, 736, and 738 to waste chamber 740.

In FIG. 11, as plunger 704 reaches the second position, a recess 1102 within an inner surface of body 602 provides a fluid passage around O-ring 712 of plunger 704. Recess 1102 may correspond to fluid channel 746 in FIG. 7. Fluid within fluid chamber 718 travels through recess 1102, alongside plunger 704, through recess 102, alongside plunger 706, through fluid passage 730 to assay chamber 732, and through fluid passages 734, 736, and 738 to waste chamber 740.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, when plunger 706 is in the second position, O-ring 716 may be positioned between an opening 1402 of fluid channel 728 and an opening 1404 of fluid channel 730 to preclude fluid flow from sample collection region 604 to assay chamber 732 through fluid channels 728 and 730. This may be useful, for example, where the fluids within fluid chamber 720 and 718 are to contact an assay membrane within assay chamber 732 rather than sample pad 606 within sample collection region 604. This may be useful, for example, where the fluids within fluid chamber 720 and 718 include a wash fluid and/or a reactive material to wash and/or react with the assay membrane.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of an assay system 1500 including a housing portion 1502 and a fluid controller system, including a plurality of fluid controllers, or plungers 1504, 1506, and 1508. Fluid controllers 1504, 1506, and 1508 define a plurality of fluid chambers, illustrated here as first, second, and third fluid chambers 1510, 1512, and 1514, respectively. Fluid controllers 1504, 1506, and 1508 are slideably nested within one another.

Housing portion 1502 includes a sample chamber 1516 to receive a sample, and may include a sample substrate, membrane or pad 1518. Housing portion 1502 may include a cover mechanism such as a cover portion 1520, which may be removable or hingedly coupled to housing portion 1502, as described above with respect to FIG. 3. Housing portion 1502 includes a sample chamber inlet 1522 and a sample chamber outlet 1524.

Housing portion 1502 includes an assay chamber 1526 and an assay chamber inlet 1528, and may include an assay substrate, membrane or pad 1528 to capture, react, and/or display assay results.

Housing portion 1502 includes an assay result viewer, illustrated here as a display window 1532 disposed over assay chamber 1528.

Housing portion 1502 includes a waste fluid chamber 1534 to receive fluids from assay chamber 1526.

Housing portion 1502 includes a transient fluid chamber 1536 having one or more fluid channels 1538, also referred to herein as a fluid controller bypass channel.

Housing portion 1502 further includes one or more other fluid channels 1558.

First fluid chamber 1510 includes a fluid chamber outlet 1560, illustrated here as a space between fluid controller 1506 and an inner surface of hosing portion 1502.

Second fluid chamber 1512 includes a fluid chamber outlet 1548, illustrated here as a gate or passage through fluid controller 1504.

Third fluid chamber 1514 includes a fluid chamber outlet 1554, illustrated here as a gate through fluid controller 1506.

Fluid controllers 1504, 1506, and 1508 include one or more sealing mechanisms, illustrated here as O-rings 1540 and 1542, O-rings 1544 and 1546, O-rings 1550 and 1552, and O-ring 1556.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of an assay system 1600 including a housing portion 1602 and a fluid controller system, including a plurality of fluid controllers, or plungers 1604, 1606, and 1608. Fluid controllers 1604, 1606, and 1608 define a plurality of fluid chambers, illustrated here as first, second, and third fluid chambers 1610, 1612, and 1614, respectively. Fluid controller 1608 is slideably nested within fluid controller 1606.

Housing portion 1602 includes a sample chamber 1616 to receive a sample, and may include a sample substrate 1618, which may include a surface of sample chamber 1616 or membrane therein. Housing portion 1602 may include a cover mechanism such as a cover portion 1620, which may be removable or hingedly coupled to housing portion 1602, as described above with respect to FIG. 3. Housing portion 1602 includes a sample chamber inlet 1622 and a sample chamber outlet 1624.

Housing portion 1602 includes an assay chamber 1626 and an assay chamber inlet 1628, and may include an assay substrate 1628 to capture, react, and/or display assay results. Assay substrate may include a surface of assay chamber 1626 or a membrane therein.

Housing portion 1602 includes an assay result viewer, illustrated here as a display window 1632 disposed over assay chamber 1628.

Housing portion 1602 includes a waste fluid chamber 1634 to receive fluids from assay chamber 1626.

Housing portion 1602 includes a transient fluid chamber 1636 having one or more fluid channels 1638, also referred to herein as a fluid controller bypass channel.

Housing portion 1602 further includes fluid channels 1658 and 1662.

First fluid chamber 1610 includes a fluid chamber outlet 1660, illustrated here as a space between fluid controller 1606 and an inner surface of hosing portion 1602.

Second fluid chamber 1612 includes a fluid chamber outlet 1648, illustrated here as a space between fluid controller 1604 and an inner surface of hosing portion 1602.

Third fluid chamber 1614 includes a fluid chamber outlet 1654, illustrated here as a gate or passage through fluid controller 1606.

Fluid controllers 1604, 1606, and 1608 include one or more sealing mechanisms, illustrated here as O-rings 1640 and 1642, O-rings 1644 and 1646, and O-ring 1656.

One or more inlets, outlets, openings, channels, and fluid pathways as described herein may be implemented as one or more of gates and passageways as described in one or more preceding examples, an may include one or more of:

• • a fluid channel within an inner surface of a housing;
  • a fluid passage within a housing, having a plurality of openings through an inner surface of the housing;
  • the fluid passage through a fluid controller; and
  • a fluid channel formed within an outer surface of one of the fluid controllers.

One or more inlets, outlets, openings, channels, fluid paths, gates, and passageways, as described herein, may include one or more flow restrictors, such as check valves, which may include a frangible check valve, to inhibit fluid flow when a pressure difference across the flow restrictor valve is below a threshold.

In FIG. 2, user-initiated actuator 204 may include one or more of a mechanical actuator, an electrical actuator, an electro-mechanical actuator, and a chemical reaction initiated actuator.

User-initiated actuator systems are disclosed below, one or more of which may be implemented with pumps disclosed above.

FIG. 17 is cross-sectional view of a mechanical actuator system 1700. Actuator system 1700 includes a button 1702 slideably disposed through an opening 1704 of an outer housing portion 1706, and through an opening 1708 of a frangible inner wall 1710 of outer housing portion 1706. Button 1702 includes a detent 1712 that extends beyond openings 1704 and 1708 to secure button 1702 between housing portion 1706 and frangible inner wall 1710.

Actuator system 1700 includes a compressible spring 1714 having a first end positioned within a cavity 1716 of button 1702, and a second end disposed within a cavity 1718 of a member 1720. Member 1720 may be coupled to, or may be a part of a fluid controller system, such a part of a plunger or fluid controller as described and illustrated in one or more examples herein.

Actuator system 1700 includes an inner housing portion 1722, slideably engaged within outer housing portion 1706. Inner housing portion 1722 includes one or more detents, illustrated here as detents 1724 and 1726, to lockingly engage one or more corresponding openings 1728 and 1730 in an inner surface of outer housing portion 1702.

Actuator system 1700 includes one or more frangible snaps 1732 coupled, directly or indirectly, to inner housing portion 1722. Frangible snap 1732 includes a locking detent 1734, and member 1720 includes a corresponding locking detent 1736 to releasably couple member 1720 to frangible snap 1732.

An assay system as disclosed herein may include a user-rupturable membrane to separate a plurality of chemicals within a flexible tear-resistant membrane. The chemicals may be selected such that, when combined, a pressurized fluid is generated. The pressurized fluid may be gas or liquid. The pressurized fluid may cause fluid controllers to move as described in one or more examples above. Multiple user-rupturable membranes may be implemented for multiple fluid passages.

Methods and systems to collect samples are described below.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a sample collection system 1800, including a body 1802, a cover 1804, and a plunger 1806.

FIG. 19 is another perspective view of sample collection system 1800, wherein body 1802 includes a sample collection region 1902, and cover 1804 includes an inner surface 1904 sized to slideably enclose sample collection region 1902.

Sample collection system 1800 may include O-rings 1906 and 1908 to sealingly enclose or isolate sample collection region 1902 from an exterior environment.

Sample collection system 1800 is not, however, limited to a sliding cover. For example, sample collection system 1800 may include hinged cover, a rotating cover, a moveable or removable window, and/or other types of covers.

Sample collection region 1902 may be configured to receive a sample collection pad, which may include a glass fiber pad or other material to absorb an amount of sample. The sample collection pad may be sized to hold or absorb a relatively small amount of sample, such as, for example approximately 250 micro-liters (μl) or less, which is approximately a volume of a drop of blood from a finger puncture.

Alternatively, or additionally, sample collection region 1902 may include a non-absorbent structure, which may include mirco-needles and/or other lance device, to capture a drop of blood, and/or a scraping device across which a swab map be provided to transfer a sample from the swab to the sample collection region.

Sample collection region 1902 may include one or more fluid entry lumens 1910 and one or more fluid exit lumens 1912.

In FIG. 19, plunger 1806 is illustrated as a stepped plunger having a plurality of regions of differing diameters or circumferences, including a first circumference region 1914 and a second circumference region 1916 that is greater than first circumference region 1914. In inner surface of body 1802 may be sized to accommodate circumference regions 1914 and 1916, and to define one or more fluid chambers. Sample collection system 1800 may include O-rings 1918 and 1920 to seal the fluid chambers.

An example embodiment and corresponding operation of sample collection system 1800 is described below with respect to FIGS. 20A and 20B. FIG. 20A is a cross-sectional view of sample collection system 1800, wherein plunger 1806 is illustrated in a first position. FIG. 20B is another cross-sectional view of sample collection system 1800, wherein plunger 1806 is illustrated in a second position. In FIGS. 20A and 20B, a fluid chamber 2014 is defined by plunger 1806, an inner surface of body 1802, and O-rings 2010 and 2012. A volume of fluid chamber 2014 varies in response to the position of plunger 1806.

In FIG. 20A, a finger 2000 is lanced to expel a drop of blood 2002 to a blood collection pad 2004 within sample collection region 1902 of FIG. 19. Finger 2000 is subsequently withdrawn from sample collection region 1902 and cover 1804 is slid over sample collection region 1902.

In FIG. 20B, plunger 1806 is pushed towards a fluid passage 2006. Fluid 2008 within fluid chamber 2014 is forced into a fluid passage 2016 to entry lumen 1910. The fluid flows through sample collection pad 2004, where it mixes with or dislodges blood from sample 2002. Resultant blood containing fluid exits sample collection region 1902 through exit lumen 1912, and passes through a fluid passage 2018 to fluid passage 2006, from where it can exit the sample collection system 1800, such as for assay and/or storage.

Another example embodiment of a sample collection system is described below with respect to FIGS. 21A and 21B.

FIG. 21A is a perspective view of a sample collection system 2100, including a sample chamber 2102 to receive fluids from multiple input lumens or fluid passages, illustrated here as fluid passages 2104, 2106, and 2108.

FIG. 21B is a cross-sectional view of sample collection system 2100, including fluid chambers 2214, 2116, and 2118, corresponding to fluid passages 2104, 2106, and 2108.

Sample collection system 2100 may correspond to a portion of body 1802 in FIG. 2 that includes sample collection region 1902.

Fluid passages 2104, 2106, and 2108 may each be controlled by a corresponding one of multiple plungers, which may be operated simultaneously, serially, and combinations thereof. The plungers may be configured as stepped plungers, such as described in one or more examples above. Sample collection system 2100 may include one or more passages to release air from one or more fluid chambers associated with one or more of the multiple plungers.

Sample collection system 2100 may include an exit lumen or fluid passage 2110 to allow fluid to exit sample chamber 2102 to an exit chamber 2112.

Sample collection system 2100 may operate, with respect to each of the multiple plungers, similarly to the description above with respect to FIGS. 20A and 20B.

Sample collection, as disclosed herein, may be implemented to fluidize, flush, flow, force, and/or dilute a sample, to provide at least a portion of the sample through a sample chamber fluid outlet.

A sample may include a biological sample, which may include, without limitation, blood, saliva, mucous, urine, feces, skin, and/or other biological substance(s), and may be obtained through one of more of puncture or piercing, swabbing, scraping, and excretion.

Sample collection methods and systems as disclosed herein may be implemented to receive a relatively small sample, such as a drop of blood, and to prepare the sample with one or more fluids before being applied to a test, such as an immunoassay.

Sample collection methods and systems as disclosed herein may be implemented to apply relatively significantly more fluid than contained in a sample, such as a lateral flow strip, that relies on the capillary action of fluid to carry out the test.

Sample collection methods and systems as disclosed herein may be implemented to receive a relatively small sample, and to prepare, store and/or ship the prepared sample to a lab, which may otherwise require significantly more sample to compensate for the loss of sample during transportation.

Claims

1. A system, comprising: a portable housing having a sample region, the sample region having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the portable housing further having a fluid chamber and a fluid passage from the fluid chamber to the sample region fluid inlet;a movable cover to enclose the sample region; anda mechanically actuated fluid controller to force fluid from the fluid chamber, through the fluid passage, the sample region fluid inlet, and the sample region fluid outlet, to move at least a portion of a sample from the sample region through the fluid outlet.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the movable cover is configured to prevent the mechanically actuated fluid controller from forcing fluid flow when the movable cover is in an open position.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the sample region is located on an enclosable portion of a surface of the portable housing.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the moveable cover includes a mechanically slideable cover.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein an outer surface of the portable housing has a substantially cylindrical shape, and wherein the moveable cover includes a slideable sleeve surrounding a portion of the portable housing.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the mechanically actuated fluid controller includes a mechanical actuator to close the cover and to actuate fluid flow when the movable cover is closed.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein: the movable cover and the mechanical actuator are releasably coupled to one another; andthe mechanical actuator is configured to close the cover and to thereafter disengage from the cover and actuate fluid flow when the cover is closed.

8. The system of claim 7, further including: a breakable tab to releasably couple the mechanical actuator to the moveable cover.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the moveable cover includes a slideable sleeve surrounding a portion of the portable housing.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the moveable cover includes a hinged cover.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the moveable cover includes a rotating cover.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the moveable cover includes a movable window.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the moveable cover includes a removable window.

14. The system of claim 1, further including: a sample collection pad disposed within the sample region to receive a biological sample.

15. The system of claim 1, further including: a sample collection pad disposed within the sample region to receive an environmental sample.

16. The system of claim 1, further including: a sample collection pad disposed within the sample region to absorb a sample.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the sample region and the sample collection pad are dimensioned to receive less than approximately 250 micro-liters of the biological sample.

18. The system of claim 1, further including: a lance device to pierce a membrane to release a biological sample therefrom.

19. The system of claim 1, further including: a scraping device to scrape a biological sample.

20. The system of claim 1, wherein the mechanically actuated fluid controller is configured to force the fluid from the sample region fluid outlet to a fluid storage chamber.

21. The system of claim 1, wherein the mechanically actuated fluid controller is further configured to seal one or more of the sample region fluid inlet and fluid outlet after the fluid is forced from the sample region fluid outlet to the fluid storage chamber, and to thereafter force another fluid from another fluid chamber to a fluid storage chamber.

22. A sample preparation system comprising: a sample receiving region that, in a first open position, can receive a sample to be prepared and which, after receiving said sample, in a second closed position, forms a fluid sample chamber; said fluid sample chamber comprising at least one fluid entry pathway and at least one fluid exit pathway;a movable plunger to define, in a first position, a fluid reagent chamber containing fluid reagent that can interact with the sample; wherein when said plunger is moved to a second position, forces said fluid reagent from said fluid reagent chamber into said fluid entry pathway, through said fluid sample chamber, out of said fluid exit pathway.

23. The device of claim 22, wherein said fluid exit pathway is configured to connect to an assay system.

24. The device of claim 22, wherein said fluid exit pathway is in fluid communication with a storage chamber to collect said sample and said reagent fluid.

25. The device of claim 24, wherein said storage chamber is physically separate from said sample preparation system.

26. The device of claim 24, wherein said movable plunger is configured to force said fluid reagent from said fluid exit pathway into said storage chamber.

27. The device of claim 22 wherein the storage chamber is in fluid communication with at least one additional fluid chamber in a testing device.

28. The sample preparation system of claim 22 comprising a plurality of fluid sample chamber and fluid reagent chamber pairs operated in parallel by at least one movable plunger.

29. The sample preparation system of claim 22 comprising a plurality of fluid reagent chambers, each containing a fluid reagent and all said fluid reagent chambers capable of fluid communication with said fluid sample chamber wherein movement of said movable plunger causes the separate reagent fluids from said plurality of fluid reagent chambers to be all forced through said fluid sample chamber.

30. The device of claim 22 wherein the fluid sample chamber is sealed between two o-rings and a movable hollow cylindrical cover.

31. The device of claim 22 wherein the plunger is a stepped plunger with a smaller diameter section for moving past the sample chamber and forcing reagent fluid into the sample chamber and a larger diameter section for reducing the volume of the fluid sample chamber.

32. A sample preparation system to prepare a sample for testing comprising: a fluid preparation chamber comprising sample receiving region and a sealing cover having a first open position wherein said sample may be applied to said sample receiving region, and a second closed position which prevents further application of sample to said sample receiving region;wherein said fluid preparation chamber comprisesat least one fluid entry pathway for providing fluid communication between a reagent chamber having a sample preparation reagent and said fluid preparation chamber; andat least one fluid exit pathway;a movable plunger which, when in a first position prevents fluid communication between said fluid preparation chamber and said reagent chamber and through said fluid exit pathway, andwhen moved to a second position forces sample preparation reagent from said reagent chamber through said fluid entry pathway into said fluid preparation chamber and into contact with said sample receiving region and out of said fluid preparation chamber through said fluid exit pathway.

33. The sample preparation system of claim 32 wherein said sealing cover is either a sleeve which can slide over said sample receiving region and engage at least one O-ring seal, or a hinged cover which engages a seal surrounding said sample receiving region.

34. The sample preparation system of claim 32 wherein said sealing cover is operably linked to said movable plunger whereby said sealing cover must be in said second closed position before said movable plunger can force said sample preparation reagent from said reagent chamber through said fluid entry pathway into said fluid preparation chamber.

35. The sample preparation system of claim 32 wherein said sample receiving region comprises at least one binding agent for binding at least one unwanted component in said sample and retaining said unwanted component upon movement of said sample and sample preparation reagent out of said fluid preparation chamber.

36. The sample preparation system of claim 32 wherein said at least one binding agent is selected from the group consisting of antibodies for specifically binding a pre-determined unwanted component, specific protein for specifically binding one or more unwanted components and specific nucleic acid fragment for specifically binding one or more unwanted components, and non-specific protein for non-specifically binding one or more unwanted components.

37. The sample preparation system of claim 36 wherein said sample receiving region further comprises finger pricking means for collecting a blood sample on said sample receiving region.

38. The sample preparation system of claim 32 wherein said binding agent is an antibody disclosed herein.

39. The sample preparation system of claim 33 wherein said sample preparation reagent is a reagent disclosed herein.

40. The sample preparation system of claim 32, wherein said sample includes one or more of blood, serum, plasma, semen, urine, feces, saliva, sputum, oral fluid, tissue, mucus, pus, tears, or cerebrospinal fluid.

41. A sample preparation system, comprising: a sample receiving chamber that has a cover in a first position where sample can be applied;said cover that can be moved to a second position that prevents further sample from being applied;at least one fluid entry pathway into said sample chamber;at least one fluid exit pathway out of said sample chamber;a fluid communication pathway created between the entry pathway and exit pathway when said cover is moved to said second position;a movable plunger or element that seals a fluid prep chamber containing fluid that will interact with the sample in a first position;said plunger or element, when moved, forces said fluid into said entry pathway, through said sample chamber and out of said exit pathway

42. Device of claim 41 wherein the exit pathway can be used to deposit sample and prep solution into another module, such as a test-tube for sample shipment, or device that contains a fluid pathway leading to a test membrane that the sample/prep solution mix can interact with.

43. Device of claim 41 wherein the fluid prep chamber can be subdivided by creating parallel plungers to store separate fluids that are all mixed when forced through the sample chamber.

44. Device of claim 41 wherein the sample application chamber is sealed between two o-rings with a movable hollow cylinder.

45. Device of claim 41 where in the sample application chamber is sealed

46. Device of claim 41 wherein the plunger is a stepped plunger with the smaller diameter section moving past the sample chamber forcing fluid into the sample chamber and the larger diameter section reducing the volume of the fluid prep chamber.

47. Device of claim 41 where said exit pathway and said entry pathway are the same.

48. A sample preparation system, comprising: a sample receiving chamber that has a cover in a first position where sample can be applied;a lancet or other mechanism that punctures a patient's finger when pressed into the sample receiving chamber;said cover that can be moved to a second position that prevents further sample from being applied;at least one fluid entry pathway into said sample chamber;at least one fluid exit pathway out of said sample chamber;a fluid communication pathway created between the entry pathway and exit pathway when said cover is moved to said second position;a movable plunger or element that seals a fluid prep chamber containing fluid that will interact with the sample in a first position;said plunger or element, when moved, forces said fluid into said entry pathway, through said sample chamber, out of said exit pathway.

49. The system of claim 14, wherein the sample includes one or more of blood, serum, plasma, semen, urine, feces, saliva, sputum, oral fluid, tissue, mucus, pus, tears, or cerebrospinal fluid.