Patent ID: 7189366
Filing Date: 2007-03-13
Classification: G01N,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for detecting a target molecule in a sample fluid in vivo or in vitro, comprising: an uptake channel enclosed by a wall and having a receiving end to receive the sample fluid; a matrix within the uptake channel, the matrix having a capture molecule for the target molecule immobilized therein; an inner tube connected to the matrix opposite the receiving end of the uptake channel; a reservoir on a side of the matrix opposite the receiving end of the uptake channel, and formed by a wall extending from said wall of said uptake channel, said reservoir wall further extending beyond and surrounding said inner tube; an analysis target area in said reservoir extending from an end of the inner tube opposite the matrix, wherein a bubble from the sample fluid can be formed therein; a reagent tag that binds to the target molecule and fluoresces when subjected to near-infrared light emissions; a light source focused directly on the analysis target area where the bubble is formed, the light source configured to emit light in a wavelength comprising near-infrared light emissions; and a detector configured to detect the reagent tag that fluoresces within the analysis target area when subjected to the light source.