Patent ID: 7220593
Filing Date: 2007-05-22
Classification: B01L,G01N,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for separation and analysis of a target analyte in sample of blood, comprising: a transparent, flexible tube for holding the sample, the sample tube having an elongate side wall with an inner surface; an elongate, rigid, volume-occupying float having a specific gravity intermediate that of red blood cells and plasma, said float comprising: a main body portion spacedly surrounded by said inner surface of the side wall to form an annular volume therebetween; one or more support members protruding from the main body portion engaging said inner surface to support said side wall; and an internal passage extending axially through said main body portion; and a movable member slidably received within said internal passage, said side wall being resiliently radially expandable in response to centrifugal force to permit axial movement of the float in the tube and fluid flow therearound during centrifugation.