Patent ID: 6699669
Filing Date: 2004-03-02
Classification: C07K

Abstract:
A method for quantitatively separating cells, proteins, or other particles, having at least one magnetic particle attached thereto and collecting at least some of said magnetic particles in a band using a multistage electromagnetic separator including at least one source of magnetic force positioned along at least one collection cavity of a first plate alignable with at least one sample container containing said magnetic particles in a fluid in sealed fluid communication and cooperatively engaging said first plate, comprising the steps of:attaching a magnetic particle to a cell, protein, or other particle; activating said at least one source of magnetic force; creating a selected increased field strength forming a magnetic field magnetizing said magnetic particle; accelerating said magnetic particle susceptible to said selected increased field strength; separating said magnetic particles which migrate forming at least one band according to their affinity to said selected increased field strength of said magnetic force; attracting said magnetic particles toward said at least one collection cavity; and collecting said magnetic particles in said at least one collection cavity.