Abstract:
An improved sample tube that includes a body portion having a longitudinal axis and a wall generally circumscribing the longitudinal axis. The body portion terminates in a distal tip having a dimple. The body portion includes at least one transparent portion (e.g., at the distal tip) that is adapted for transmitting light. The wail is configured for elastic deformation along at feast a portion of its length, including in a direction that is generally transverse to the longitudinal axis, so that it compressively and resiliently deforms and engages a wail defining an opening in a sample block of a PGR amplification instrument. The tube may be made by injection molding a polymeric material including a thermoplastic.
Abstract:
A thermocycler apparatus and method for rapidly performing the PCR process employs at least two thermoelectric modules which are in substantial spatial opposition with an interior space present between opposing modules. One or more multiple sample vessels are placed in between the module such that the vessels are subjected to temperature cycling by the modules. The sample vessels have a minimal internal dimensional that is substantially perpendicular to the modules that facilitates rapid temperature cycling. In embodiments of the invention the sample vessels may be deformable between: a) a shape having a wide mouth to facilitate filling and removing of sample fluids from the vessel, and b) a shape which is thinner for conforming to the sample cavity or interior space between the thermoelectric modules of the thermocycler for more rapid heat transfer.
Abstract:
Methods and devices for stabilizing a biological sample for analysis, comprising the steps of obtaining in a sample collection device a biological sample from a subject, the biological sample including at least one circulating cell-free first nucleic acid from the subject. The methods may include a step of contacting the biological sample while within the sample collection device with a protective agent composition that includes a preservative agent, an optional anticoagulant, and a quenching agent to form a mixture that includes the protective agent composition and the sample.
Abstract:
An improved device and system for facilitating polymerase chain reaction including a light source, detector, waveguide, and filters that occupy minimal space and facilitate reduced sample read time and rapid reading of multiple light wavelengths.
Abstract:
A method for preserving and processing cell-free nucleic acids located within a blood sample is disclosed, wherein a blood sample containing cell-free nucleic acids is treated to reduce both blood cell lysis and nuclease activity within the blood sample. The treatment of the sample aids in increasing the amount of cell-free nucleic acids that can be identified and tested while maintaining the structure and integrity of the nucleic acids.
Abstract:
A method for preserving and processing cell-free nucleic acids located within a blood sample is disclosed, wherein a blood sample containing cell-free nucleic acids is treated to reduce both blood cell lysis and nuclease activity within the blood sample. The treatment of the sample aids in increasing the amount of cell-free nucleic acids that can be identified and tested while maintaining the structure and integrity of the nucleic acids.
Abstract:
A composition and method of use thereof wherein the composition comprises one or more components capable of releasing an aldehyde, one or more anticoagulants or chelating agents, and one or more polysaccharides. The composition has a pH of from about 4 to about 6.
Abstract:
A method for preserving and processing cell-free nucleic acids located within a blood sample is disclosed, wherein a blood sample containing cell-free nucleic acids is treated to reduce both blood cell lysis and nuclease activity within the blood sample. The treatment of the sample aids in increasing the amount of cell-free nucleic acids that can be identified and tested while maintaining the structure and integrity of the nucleic acids.
Abstract:
A method for preserving and processing cell-free nucleic acids located within a blood sample is disclosed, wherein a blood sample containing cell-free nucleic acids is treated to reduce both blood cell lysis and nuclease activity within the blood sample. The treatment of the sample aids in increasing the amount of cell-free nucleic acids that can be identified and tested while maintaining the structure and integrity of the nucleic acids.