Patent ID: 7521255
Filing Date: 2009-04-21
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A method for controlling the formation of a seal between a biological element comprising a membrane and the edges of a through-opening in a support, wherein the biological element is labeled with a tracer that emits a light radiation, the support comprises a layer of a material configured to trap the light radiation by internal reflection, and the through-opening is located in the layer, the method comprising: a) forming the seal between the biological element and the edges of the through-opening by creating a low pressure in the through-opening to cause the biological element to partially penetrate the opening; b) measuring intensity of light radiation internally reflected in the layer at predetermined distances from the through-hole; and c) comparing the intensity thus measured with at least one reference value to determine when the seal is obtained; wherein a) and b) can be carried out successively or simultaneously.