Patent ID: 6664104
Filing Date: 2003-12-16
Classification: B01L,C12M

Abstract:
A device for extracting an analyte from a sample, the device comprising a cartridge having:a) a first flow path that includes a flow-through chip for extracting the analyte from the sample, the chip comprising a body having formed therein: i) an extraction chamber; ii) at least one inlet port in fluid communication with the extraction chamber; iii) at least one outlet port in fluid communication with the extraction chamber, wherein the inlet and outlet ports permit liquid flow through the extraction chamber and out of the chip; and iv) an array of microstructures extending into the extraction chamber for capturing the analyte from the sample as the sample flows through the chip and for subsequently releasing the captured analyte into an elution fluid as the elution fluid flows through the chip, wherein each of the microstructures has an aspect ratio (ratio of height to width or diameter) of at least 2:1; b) an elution flow path for eluting the captured analyte from the chip, wherein the elution flow path passes through the chip and diverges from the first flow path after passing through the chip; and c) at least one flow controller positioned downstream of the at least one outlet port to direct the remaining sample fluid, from which the analyte has been separated, to flow in the first flow path after the sample flows through the chip and to direct the eluted analyte to flow in the diverging elution flow path.