Patent ID: 7785865
Filing Date: 2010-08-31
Classification: B01L,G01N,Y10S

Abstract:
1. An improved membrane array for rapid, highly efficient and highly sensitive detection of one or more analytes in a small sample volume, said membrane array comprising three or more porous membranes which are non-planar with respect to adjacent ones, wherein said three or more porous membranes are overlapping and arranged in stair step configuration, said three or more porous membranes comprising: a first step adapted to receive a fluid sample and containing a detection reagent, said first step having an apex at an upstream end, said apex for receiving said sample through its thickness by capillary flow said first step overlapping a second step; said second step having a lower porosity than said first step, wherein said second step has a pore size that accommodates red blood cells without substantial hemolysis, said second step overlapping a third step; and said third step having a lower porosity than said second step and containing a capture reagent, wherein said membrane array creates horizontal and uniform flow of said sample from receipt of said sample at said apex in said first step to said second step and then to said third step where detection of said analytes occurs.