Patent ID: 7914999
Filing Date: 2011-03-29
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A method for preparing a test sample for use in an assay for an analyte that is a non-protein molecule, the method comprising contacting the test sample with a lysis reagent to form a lysis mixture, wherein the analyte, if present in the sample, is released from a cell or other component within the sample, the lysis reagent comprising a glycol selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and an analog thereof; wherein: at least one alcohol having five or fewer carbons is included in the lysis reagent or added to the lysis mixture, the ratio of glycol to alcohol is in the range of about 4:1 to about 1:4, and, after addition of the alcohol, the lysis mixture is a homogeneous mixture that is sufficiently free of large particulates to allow automated pipetting of the mixture; the method does not comprise contacting the test sample or the lysis mixture with a detergent; the lysis mixture does not comprise a chelating agent; and the lysis mixture can be assayed without the need for a separation step.