Patent ID: 9033897
Filing Date: 2015-05-19
Classification: A61B,B01L

Abstract:
1. A sampling instrument adapted for taking a sample in situ and in vivo or taking a sample ex vivo of a target tissue or body structure, in a maximum quantity of less than 10 −6 g, said instrument comprising: an elongated active member extending along an axis from a proximal end to a distal operative end, the active member presenting a back side extending along the axis, the distal operative end having at least one retaining surface angularly offset from the back side and arranged for contacting directly said target tissue or body structure, capturing and retaining molecules of said target tissue or body structure thereto, wherein the retaining surface comprises at least two elementary retaining surfaces separated by one of a rib and a collecting groove, the elementary retaining surfaces being arranged in sequence on the distal operative end along the axis of the active member, each elementary retaining surface being coated with a material adapted to bind molecules of the target tissue or body structure; an elongated hollow component extending along an axis and in which the active member is movably mounted, the active member being movable in axial translation and in rotation about the axis of the active member inside the hollow component, the hollow component comprising a side wall extending along the axis of the hollow component, a proximal opening through which the active member is mounted in the hollow component, and a distal aperture opening into the side wall, the distal aperture being closed by the back side of the active member, when the active member engaged in the hollow component is in a first angular position relative to the hollow component, and being opened when the active member engaged in the hollow component is in a second angular position relative to the hollow component, the second angular position exhibiting the retaining surface of the active member through the distal aperture of the hollow component.