Patent Description:
There are known supports for conserving samples of biological material comprising a matrix, usually made of absorbent material. The absorbent matrix can consist of a cellulose-based material, such as, for example, paper, particularly absorbent paper or filter paper, which can be specifically treated, in particular chemically, to enable the absorption and conservation of the collected samples of biological material.

Such types of paper are known, for example, from patent application <CIT>). Transferring samples of biological material that have been collected by means of specific devices (e.g. swabs of varying nature, in particular, for example, flocked swabs) onto matrix supports of the type previously described is known. Following the transfer of the samples onto matrix supports, a portion of the sample can be taken from the matrix support, for example in order to be subsequently analysed. The step of taking a sample from the support can be carried out by means of a known sample-taking device, such as a punch or a manual or automatic punching machine suitable for separating a small portion of the matrix support from the support. A punching machine suitable for taking a sample of biological material from a matrix support made of paper is known, for example, from patent application <CIT>).

Sample-taking devices usually have one or more surfaces which, on entering into contact with the support for conserving biological material, are designed to remove a portion of a sample of biological material from the support. In particular, when the sample-taking device consists of a punch, the portion removed from the matrix can be disc-shaped. Following removal of a sample of biological material from the matrix support it is convenient and advisable to clean the surfaces responsible for taking it, in order to be able then to proceed to take a further sample of biological material by means of the same sample-taking device. Cleaning has the purpose of avoiding contamination, by the sample-taking device, of the subsequent support from which it is intended to take a further sample of biological material. Such contamination could occur, for example, due to the presence of biological residues and/or impurities on the surfaces of the sample-taking device designed to take the sample of biological material from the support. Cleaning a sample-taking device using a special cleaning support, distinct from the conservation support, is known. For example, if the device for taking a sample of biological material from a first support is a punch, in accordance with the known cleaning method, cleaning is performed by punching once, in a "blank" mode, a "virgin" cleaning support devoid of contaminants, in particular an absorbent matrix, so that the contact between the head of the punch and the second support allows the removal of biological residues and/or impurities present on the punch itself. In the context of the present description, "virgin" support means a matrix support, or a portion thereof, on which no sample of biological material has been deposited, whereas punching in a "blank" mode means the operation consisting in punching a virgin support in order to clean the punch. The known method is complex, as it requires manipulating both the conservation supports and the cleaning supports, which results in various drawbacks, including at least an increase in costs and a lengthening of processing times.

From document<CIT>, moreover, there is known a support for conserving samples of biological material comprising at least: a first portion of an absorbent matrix suitable and intended for conserving a sample of biological material and a second portion, distinct from the first portion and suitable for, configured and intended to constitute a cleaning zone for the head of a device, in particular a punch, suitable for taking a sample of biological material from the first portion. The support can further comprise a third portion interposed between the first portion and the second portion; the third portion can have one or more notches or one or more openings.

The paper supports of a known type described above show some drawbacks.

In particular, such paper supports are bendable and do not have any appreciable rigidity; in manipulation with automatic loaders, automatic manipulators and/or punching machines, bending of the supports may thus occur, which may thus lead to malfunctions. It should be further considered that in automatic loaders, the spaces are limited, and hence there is a need for great precision in positioning and manipulation by the completely automated systems. It is further known from <CIT> a test device for the handling, drying, storage, transport or the like and subsequent analysis of fluid samples or the like, in which supportive material sections are disposed in apertures of a substrate comprising an upper portion and a lower portion sandwiched together. It is further known from <CIT> a blood sample collection slide having a slide mount, comprising an obverse frame face and a reverse frame face, with a biological specimen collection material embedded in the mount. It is further known from <CIT> an apparatus for holding biological samples having a pair of rigid frames, each frame comprising an aperture, and a biological sample storage medium placed between the two frames. It is further known from <CIT> a sample carrier embedded in a sample carrier front board and a sample carrier rear board, which together form a sample carrier board.

The object of the present disclosure is therefore to describe a support for conserving one or more samples of biological material which enables one or more of the above-described drawbacks to be overcome.

For the purposes of the present disclosure, moulding, co-moulding and overmoulding exclude mechanical juxtapositions of parts made of a plastic material which are both already solidified, in particular removable or in any case individualising juxtapositions, in particular a finished product, a joining portion where two pieces of plastic material are not indissolubly and seamlessly joined.

A detailed description of one or more preferred embodiments will now be provided by way of non-limiting example, in which:.

With reference to the appended figures, the reference number <NUM> denotes in its entirety a support for conserving one or more samples of biological material.

The support <NUM> comprises at least an absorbent matrix <NUM>, where absorbent matrix <NUM> means a matrix support or any other means suitable and intended for the collection and in particular the conservation of samples of biological material.

As illustrated in the appended figures, and in particular in <FIG>, the support <NUM> comprises a substantially rigid weight-bearing body <NUM>, which serves as a support for the absorbent matrix <NUM>.

The support <NUM> further comprises at least a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM>, preferably likewise made with an absorbent matrix <NUM>. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the aforesaid first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> are portions of heterogeneous material, which is in particular distinct from the material the body <NUM> is made of.

The first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> is suitable and intended for the absorption and conservation of a sample of biological material and can be chemically treated in an appropriate manner to enhance the conservation of biological material, also for a long period of time. The conservation of samples of biological material is fundamental in applications in which there is a need to process the biological material collected, for example to perform subsequent analyses, even after a long period of time has elapsed since the moment when the sample to be analysed was deposited on the absorbent matrix <NUM>.

The second portion <NUM> is suitable for and configured to constitute a cleaning zone for the surfaces of the sample-taking device that have come into contact with the absorbent matrix <NUM>, in particular in the first portion <NUM>, upon the taking of a sample of biological material. In particular, said surfaces can belong to the head of a sample-taking device. The Applicant stresses that the "sample-taking device" described in this paragraph is not the device with which the biological sample is taken in order to be deposited on the absorbent matrix <NUM>, but rather a device - for example an electromechanical device - conceived to take a part of the absorbent matrix <NUM>, in particular of the first portion <NUM>, in order to enable laboratory tests to be performed on the biological sample supported thereupon.

In the context of the present description, head of a sample-taking device means one or more surfaces and/or portions of the sample-taking device suitable for removing a sample of biological material from the absorbent matrix <NUM>, in particular in the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM>. For example, in the event that the sample-taking device is a punch, the surfaces suitable for coming into contact with the biological material in the first portion <NUM> in order to remove a sample therefrom belong to the head of the punch. If the sample-taking device is a punch, it can be cleaned by punching, in a "blank" mode, the second portion <NUM> one or more times so that the material the second portion <NUM> is made of can remove the residues of biological material and/or the impurities on the surfaces of the sample-taking device suitable for taking portions of samples of biological material from the support <NUM>.

In order to complete the cleaning efficiently and avoid contaminating the sample-taking device, no sample of biological material is deposited in the second portion <NUM> for the purpose of conserving it, so that the second portion <NUM> is maintained virgin.

The second portion <NUM> can be made of an absorbent material or any other material capable of cleaning the head of the sample-taking device when in contact with it. In particular, the second portion <NUM> can be made with the same absorbent matrix <NUM>.

The first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> can be made of a same material or different materials and/or have characteristics differing among them, acquired, for example, through one or more specific processes to which they have been subjected.

In particular, the first portion <NUM> can be configured, for example by adding specific substances suited to the purpose, to absorb and conserve samples of biological material, whereas the second portion <NUM> can be configured to absorb and/or remove residues of biological material and/or impurities present on the surfaces of the sample-taking device suitable for taking portions of samples of biological material from the support <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG> and in <FIG>, the body <NUM> of the support <NUM> completely encloses the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>; the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> are each separated from the edge or perimeter of the body <NUM> by a part or portion of body <NUM>. The Applicant has observed that the manipulation of the body <NUM> can take place by gripping the perimeter of the body <NUM> itself; this gripping can also be performed by the user manually, or by a robotised device, according to an automatic procedure. The portion of the body <NUM> that separates the perimeter of the support <NUM> at least from the first portion <NUM>, measured along the plane X-Y defined by the first and second reference axes, measures at least <NUM> and, more preferably, at least <NUM> or at least <NUM>. Thanks to this aspect, it is possible to avoid accidental contaminations above all of the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> when the body <NUM> is manipulated.

As illustrated in the appended figures, the body <NUM> of the support <NUM> for conserving a sample of biological material extends mainly along a first and a second direction respectively identified by a first reference axis X and a second reference axis Y, preferably with a planar shape. The first and second directions respectively identify a length and a width of the body <NUM>. The body <NUM> further extends along a third direction identified by a third reference axis Z, orthogonal to the first reference axis X and to the second reference axis Y; the third direction identifies a thickness of the body <NUM>. The body <NUM> thus identifies an upper face or first surface <NUM> and a lower face or second surface <NUM>, opposite the first surface and, in particular, preferably parallel thereto.

The body <NUM> further identifies a lateral surface <NUM> which defines the perimeter of the body itself; said surface extends substantially along planes comprising at least the third reference axis Z; when the body <NUM> has a rectangular shape, as in the case of the embodiment in the appended figures, the planes along which the lateral surface <NUM> extends are in twos, comprising the first and the third reference axes X, Z, and the second and third reference axes Y, Z.

The support <NUM> can further comprise a third portion <NUM>. In an unillustrated variant, the third portion <NUM> can be interposed between the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>, and preferably be a connecting portion between the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>. In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the third portion <NUM> is not interposed between said portions. The third portion <NUM> is advantageously a portion of the absorbent matrix <NUM>. The body <NUM> preferably comprises a third through opening in which the third portion <NUM> is housed, as illustrated in <FIG>. In a preferred embodiment, the third portion <NUM> can be suitable for and intended to constitute a calibration portion of the device for taking the sample from the first portion, and, in greater detail, it can be intended to enable a verification of a colorimetric difference existing between areas in which the sample of biological material is deposited and areas without any biological sample. The colorimetric difference is emphasised, in particular, when the material of the first portion changes colour after the sample of biological material has been deposited, for example as a result of the characteristics of the sample and/or the presence of appropriate chemical substances on the first portion.

The first portion <NUM> and/or the second portion <NUM> and/or the third portion <NUM> and/or the absorbent matrix <NUM> can preferably be made of a cellulose-based material and/or made of a paper material, for example absorbent paper or filter paper.

The absorbent matrix <NUM> can preferably be made of a cellulose-based material, for example made of a paper material, absorbent paper or filter paper in particular. More in particular, the absorbent matrix can consist of a cellulose-based material, such as, for example, paper, absorbent paper or filter paper in particular, which can be specifically treated, in particular chemically, to enable the absorption and conservation of the collected samples of biological material. The chemical treatment performed on the absorbent paper, if present, can preferably be a preserving chemical treatment, in particular a DNA-compatible one; for the purposes of the present disclosure, "preserving" treatment, in particular a "DNA-compatible" one, should be understood as a treatment and/or material designed not to deteriorate the biological sample present on the absorbent paper, so as to be able to permit a correct analysis thereof at a later time following the moment in which the biological sample is collected. More in particular, "preserving" treatment, in particular a "DNA-compatible" one means a treatment and/or a material that does not alter the DNA structure of the sample, but can comprise a bactericidal action configured to stop or limit the proliferation of bacteria on the absorbent matrix <NUM>. In fact, the absorbent matrix <NUM> can comprise or be totally or partially impregnated with a compound or composition for protecting DNA, comprising, by way of non-limiting example, an acid joined to a base; in particular, it can comprise uric acid joined to a weak base in order to convert the uric acid into salts and provide an alkaline environment.

With the aim of enabling the biological samples to be conserved for a long period, the absorbent matrix <NUM> is insoluble in liquids, specifically insoluble in biological liquids. Furthermore, preferably, but without limitation, the absorbent matrix <NUM> is made of a material, in particular absorbent paper or filter paper, which is dimensionally stable when impregnated by a liquid, particularly when impregnated by a biological liquid. By virtue of this aspect, since the absorbent matrix <NUM> is suspended, i.e. it possesses no support in the direction identified by the third reference axis Z for a substantial portion thereof, one avoids an excessive warping of the same after the absorption of the biological liquid in use held therein, thus preventing the risk that such warping may cause contact between the absorbent matrix <NUM> and other absorbent matrices or other bodies <NUM> of adjacent supports <NUM>.

The support <NUM> for conserving biological material comprises an outer containing body <NUM>, which is configured to house the first portion <NUM>, the second portion <NUM> and/or the absorbent matrix <NUM> inside it, at least partially, and preferably completely. In other words, the body <NUM> can have one or more seats intended to house the first portion <NUM>, the second portion <NUM> and, optionally, the third portion <NUM> and further portions if present. For the purposes of the present disclosure, "inside" means that, at least when devoid of samples of biological material, the first portion <NUM> and in particular all of the portions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, if present in a larger number than the first portion, do not extend outside the profile defined by the body <NUM>.

As briefly mentioned above, in accordance with an important aspect, at least the first portion <NUM> made of an absorbent matrix <NUM> is positioned in a respective through opening <NUM> so as to be suspended for at least a portion thereof, preferably for a substantial portion thereof comprising at least <NUM>% of the surface of the absorbent matrix <NUM>. In a particular embodiment, the support <NUM> can be provided with a first completely suspended portion <NUM>. In the suspended portion thereof, the aforesaid first portion <NUM> does not have the support of the body <NUM>.

In particular, the first portion <NUM> has a lateral surface <NUM> extending along a plane that comprises the third reference axis Z, to which a first and a second face or surface <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively larger and smaller, are joined. The first and the second face or surface preferably lie in parallel planes, each of which comprises the first and the second direction identified by the first and second reference axes X, Y. In particular, at least one part or portion of the first and second face <NUM>, <NUM> is suspended.

For the purposes of the present disclosure, "suspended" means that at least a first portion <NUM> has no means of support lying below or above it in a direction identified by the third reference axis Z. "Partially suspended" means that the at least a first portion <NUM>, for at least a sub-portion thereof, and in particular a portion or part of the first and/or second face, has no means of support lying below or above it in a direction identified by the third reference axis Z. When the first portion is completely suspended, it is held solely by contact and/or adhesion in a second lateral part thereof extending over a plane or a number of planes, also continuously when the first portion <NUM> assumes the form of a curve with no angular points, comprising the third reference axis Z.

The surfaces of the first portion <NUM> other than the second lateral part <NUM> are preferably free, not interposed in a sandwich-like manner, and are thus directly accessible to contact. In the present text, the term "directly accessible to contact" means devoid of coverings of any kind, for example a film covering, and/or directly accessible for example for depositing samples or taking portions by means of a punch. The first portion <NUM> thus represents a first portion <NUM> of a single-layer absorbent matrix <NUM>.

In particular, under operating conditions of the containing body <NUM>, the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> can be disposed inside the body <NUM>. "Operating conditions" of the body <NUM> means the condition in which at least the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> are disposed inside the body <NUM>. In particular, under operating conditions of the body <NUM>, the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> are suitably positioned inside the containing body <NUM> so that the first portion <NUM> is ready for the deposit of a sample of biological material for the conservation thereof or for the taking of a sample of biological material and the second portion <NUM> is ready for cleaning the sample-taking device. The first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> can be distinct and/or applied individually to the support <NUM>, in particular to the body <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG> and in greater detail in <FIG>, a preferred and non-limiting embodiment of the support <NUM> can be provided with a body <NUM> that has an upper portion <NUM> and a lower portion <NUM> coupled to each other; in particular, along the direction identified by the third reference axis Z, the upper portion <NUM> is juxtaposed to or superimposed on the lower portion <NUM>. The upper portion <NUM> and the lower portion <NUM> each have a respective thickness <NUM>, <NUM> measured in a direction parallel to the direction identified by the third reference axis Z. More preferably, the upper portion <NUM> and the lower portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> are made integrally and/or indissolubly coupled to each other after a moulding or co-moulding or overmoulding process better described below.

The second portion <NUM> of an absorbent matrix <NUM> has its own thickness <NUM> measured in a direction parallel to the direction identified by the third reference axis Z. In particular, the thickness <NUM> measures less than the sum of the thicknesses of the upper portion <NUM> and lower portion <NUM>; relative to the first and second surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>, in the second portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM>, the body <NUM> thus identifies at least a first profile of discontinuity of thickness, and in particular, in accordance with the embodiments represented in the appended figures, a first and a second profile of discontinuity of thickness <NUM>, <NUM>, each having respectively a first height <NUM> and a second height <NUM>, both measured along a direction parallel to the direction identified by the aforesaid third reference axis Z.

In particular, it has been observed that the thickness <NUM> of the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> is preferably about <NUM> and more in general comprised in the interval [<NUM> - <NUM>] mm. This thickness has been observed to be the one with the best compromise between resistance and the capacity to absorb liquids or fluids. For this reason, the first portion of the absorbent matrix <NUM> is definable as a portion of a thin, flexible, non-weight-bearing material. For the purposes of the present disclosure, "non-weight-bearing" means a material that, in particular in the specific configuration of thickness defined previously, does not have characteristics such as to and is not configured to act as a support for itself or for further materials and/or layers, as it is substantially completely flexible or limp.

When the second portion <NUM> and/or the subsequent portions are present in the specific embodiment actually produced, and in particular when said at least a second portion <NUM> is also made of an absorbent matrix <NUM> as in the first embodiment, the thickness measurements previously mentioned for the first portion <NUM> are also applicable to the aforesaid at least a second portion <NUM>.

The Applicant has further found that the first and second profiles of discontinuity of thickness <NUM>, <NUM> are useful for enabling a number of supports <NUM> to be stacked without the respective first portions <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> touching one another. Although the presence of only one between the first and a second profile of discontinuity of thickness may be sufficient to enable a number of supports <NUM> to be stacked without the respective first portions <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> touching one another, the presence of a first and of a second profile of discontinuity of thickness ensures a larger margin, with a reduction in the risk of reciprocal contamination between two or more first portions <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> without contact, also when the absorbent matrix <NUM> bends due to the weight of the liquid or fluid absorbed. This solution also makes it possible to reduce the risk of contamination of the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> by the walls of the rack on which the supports <NUM> can be stacked.

In order to enable a support of sufficient sturdiness to be obtained, the overall thickness of the support <NUM>, and hence the sum of the thicknesses <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper portion <NUM> and the lower portion <NUM>, is preferably equal to at least <NUM>, and preferably comprised in the interval <NUM> - <NUM>, more preferably substantially equal to <NUM>. In <FIG> and in <FIG> an embodiment is illustrated in which the thickness of the upper portion <NUM> is equal to the thickness of the lower portion <NUM>; for example, if the overall thickness of the support <NUM> is equal to <NUM>, each portion will have a thickness equal to <NUM>. However, it is possible to have an upper portion <NUM> with a thickness differing from the thickness of the lower portion <NUM>.

Preferably, but without limitation, the dimensional ratio is substantially comprised in the interval between <NUM>:<NUM> (for example, thickness of the body <NUM> equal to <NUM>, thickness of the at least a first portion <NUM> equal to <NUM>) and <NUM>:<NUM> (for example, thickness of the body <NUM> equal to <NUM>, thickness of the at least a first portion <NUM> equal to <NUM>) or <NUM>:<NUM> (for example, thickness of the body <NUM> equal to <NUM>, thickness of the at least a first portion <NUM> equal to <NUM>).

The body <NUM> of the support <NUM> is made of a plastic material susceptible of being moulded or co-moulded or overmoulded. After the moulding, co-moulding or overmoulding process, the body <NUM> of the support <NUM> assumes a structure that is integral or in a single body, wherein the plastic material with which the body is made is indissolubly bonded, extending continuously and/or uninterruptedly in particular along a direction substantially parallel to the Z axis, that is, through the thickness, in particular the entire thickness, of the body <NUM>. In a preferred embodiment, the body <NUM> is made of a single piece. The plastic material is preferably crystal polystyrene, for example <NUM>%. Non-limiting examples of plastic materials suitable for being moulded or co-moulded are polyolefin plastic materials, including polypropylene, or vinyl plastic materials, including polyvinylchloride, or else styrene or polyester-based plastic materials, including polycarbonate or polyethylene. Preferably, but without limitation, use is made of plastic materials with a low property of chemical interaction with the absorbent matrix <NUM>, in particular when made of cellulose. This advantageously makes it possible to leave, above all, the first portion <NUM> free of contaminating agents as much as possible, even after particularly long storage.

The Applicant notes that, in particular for the first portion <NUM> - suitable for accommodating the biological sample when in use - and, subordinately, for the at least a second portion <NUM> - it is important that in the production process of the support <NUM> there be no interactions between the plastic material of the body <NUM> and the cellulose which is part at least of the absorbent matrix <NUM>; for this reason, among the plastic materials described previously, it can be advisable to select plastic materials which, combined with a low chemical interaction with the absorbent matrix <NUM>, also have a low moulding temperature, and in particular a moulding temperature that is less than or equal to a temperature at which the absorbent matrix <NUM> undergoes deterioration or damage. A low moulding temperature of the plastic material contributes to reducing the risk of widespread alteration in the chemical characteristics of the absorbent matrix <NUM>, since, particularly in the junction zones, the absorbent matrix <NUM> will heat up less. It has been observed, in particular, that in the event that polyvinylchloride is the selected plastic material, correct moulding operations can be achieved with a temperature starting from <NUM> and up to <NUM>-<NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an alternative embodiment of the support <NUM>. In this alternative embodiment, in addition to the elements described previously, the body of the support <NUM> can have a unique identification code <NUM> integrated therewith, preferably, but without limitation, represented on the upper surface or first surface <NUM> of the body <NUM>. More particularly, the unique identification code <NUM> can be represented by applying ink, preferably indelible or, alternatively, engraved, for example, by means of a laser. Thanks to this feature, each support <NUM> can be numbered or distinguished clearly from the others; this can benefit both the manufacturer of the support <NUM>, because it can keep track of precisely which and how many supports <NUM> have been distributed among its various customers, and users. The latter will advantageously have the possibility of precisely selecting which, among the various supports at their disposal, is the one that is of interest. For example, the unique identification code <NUM> can be made in the form of a barcode or QR code or any further known code with graphic representation.

The support <NUM>, as represented in <FIG>, can likewise be provided with a radio-frequency identification chip <NUM>. The radio-frequency identification chip <NUM> is preferably introduced inside the body <NUM>, and even more preferably it is embedded therewithin, so that no part of it projects outside the profile of the support. The radio-frequency identification chip <NUM> can be of the semi-active or passive type, the latter alternative being the preferred one. The use of a radio-frequency identification chip <NUM> of a passive type enables the presence of a battery to be completely avoided and thus enables the chip to be energy independent from permanent power sources.

A memory of a non-volatile type may be conveniently accommodated within the radio-frequency identification chip <NUM>, more preferably, but without limitation, one having at least one inalterable, i.e. non-rewritable portion; the unique identification code represented or representable on the body <NUM> is preferably memorised within that portion. The memorisation of the unique identification code inside the radio-frequency identification chip advantageously makes it possible to verify which and how many supports <NUM> are in the possession of a specific user or a specific customer by remote reading, in particular without direct access to the upper surface or first surface <NUM> of the body <NUM>. This advantageously allows the possibility of reading the support <NUM> even if it is stacked or closed in a storeroom. Further portions of the memory can be writable by the user to memorise data of interest therein, preferably data relating to the biological sample contained in the absorbent matrix <NUM>.

The radio-frequency identification chip <NUM> is preferably an RFID chip that can operate, for example, over a predetermined frequency - by way of non-limiting example, <NUM> or <NUM>. Conveniently, with the use of the frequency <NUM>, particularly if the access protocol complies with standard ISO <NUM> or <NUM>, it is possible to read the radio-frequency identification chip remotely over a maximum range of <NUM> (ISO <NUM>) or <NUM> (ISO <NUM>). The limitation of the maximum range for reading the radio-frequency identification chip advantageously makes it possible to prevent ill-intentioned persons from being able to remotely read the data contained in supports <NUM> that do not belong to them. In order to increase security in the reading of the electronic data contained in the memory of the radio-frequency identification chip <NUM>, it is likewise possible for the electronic data to be encrypted.

Furthermore, the support <NUM> can comprise an identification profile for identifying correct manipulation. In a preferred and non-limiting embodiment, the identification profile <NUM> for identifying correct manipulation, illustrated in <FIG>, is preferably, but without limitation, disposed at or substantially at the perimeter of the body <NUM>. The identification profile <NUM> for identifying correct manipulation can advantageously comprise an asymmetric lateral perimeter; in particular, an embodiment of the support <NUM> that has a bevelled corner at the lateral surface <NUM> is represented in <FIG>. The identification profile <NUM> for identifying correct manipulation is conveniently usable as a mechanical and/or optical stop profile. More in particular, the Applicant has observed that the identification profile for identifying correct manipulation can be "read" by a mechanical stop present on an automatic device for manipulating the support <NUM> and/or be automatically recognised by an optical means for reading the same support <NUM>.

Finally, the support <NUM> can comprise spacers <NUM> disposed on the upper surface or first surface <NUM>, suitable for enabling a further separation of the same surface, and thus at least also of the first portion <NUM>, from further surfaces and/or portions of supports <NUM> placed side by side or stacked in the direction identified by the third reference axis Z. In a preferred and non-limiting embodiment, the spacers <NUM> assume a dome shape. Preferably, but without limitation, the spacers <NUM> are disposed alternatively either on the upper surface <NUM> or lower surface <NUM> of the body <NUM>; by positioning the spacers on only one face of the body <NUM>, one prevents the possibility of the spacers <NUM>, in particular when a number of supports <NUM> are stacked along the direction identified by the third reference axis Z, coming into reciprocal contact, thus leading to a misalignment of the supports <NUM>. Alternatively, the spacers <NUM> can be positioned on both the upper surface <NUM> and lower surface <NUM> of the body <NUM>, but in such a configuration it is advisable that the spacers <NUM> present on the upper face <NUM> not be aligned - in the direction identified by the third reference axis Z - with the spacers <NUM> present on the lower surface <NUM>.

The production of the support <NUM> to which the present disclosure relates follows the process described here below.

As illustrated in <FIG> and in <FIG>, a first step of the production process for producing the support <NUM> can comprise making a base or lower portion <NUM> made of a plastic material, and fashioning at least a first through opening <NUM> therein in a predetermined zone in which the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> will subsequently be positioned. Further steps of the production process for producing the support <NUM> can comprise making a number of seats <NUM> in predetermined zones in which the second portion <NUM> and/or the third portion <NUM> will be positioned, if present in the support <NUM> as conceived for the specific use. These steps are thus optional and depend on the number of portions included in the support <NUM>. In particular, <FIG> illustrates this step of the process for an embodiment of the support <NUM> configured to include a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM>; the number of seats <NUM> is therefore equal to two. In the case of the embodiment of <FIG>, there are three seats <NUM>.

The seats <NUM> for the first portion <NUM>, the second portion <NUM> and/or the third portion <NUM> are made in such a way as to be separate from one another, thus allowing a part of the body <NUM> to act as a guard interval <NUM>. Preferably, but without limitation, the guard interval is not less than <NUM> and it is preferably not less than <NUM>. In this manner, the second portion <NUM> and/or third portion <NUM> will also be separate from each other so as to avoid reciprocal contaminations, also in the event of partial, incorrect and/or imprecise positioning of the portions themselves.

The absorbent matrix <NUM> is subsequently positioned over the through opening <NUM> in the predetermined zone for the placement of the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM>, and retained by means of a retaining device. Alternatively, the absorbent matrix <NUM> can be retained by gluing a peripheral area thereof <NUM> overlapping the upper face <NUM> of the lower portion <NUM>. Advantageously, in order to make this overlap possible, the absorbent matrix <NUM> is first cut or in any case produced in such a way as to exceed the dimensions of the respective through opening <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates this step for an embodiment of the support <NUM> that comprises a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM>. In this case, the second portion <NUM>, too, is retained by means of a retaining device or is alternatively glued onto a peripheral area thereof overlapping the upper face <NUM> of the lower portion <NUM>.

The production process for producing the support <NUM> subsequently comprises a step of positioning the upper portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> on the assembly formed by at least the first portion <NUM> of absorbent matrix <NUM> and the lower portion of the body <NUM>. In greater detail, the positioning step comprises a moulding or co-moulding or overmoulding a plastic material on the support formed by the lower portion <NUM> of the body <NUM>. For the purposes of the present disclosure, "moulding" means a technique which can comprise injection or compression moulding or rotational moulding, or another technique suited to the purpose, and preferably consists in injection moulding, in order to join the upper portion <NUM> and the lower portion <NUM> indissolubly through at least a mechanical joining leading to the definition of a structure that, especially once cooled, is definable as having been made monolithically and/or is definable as "monolithic", and extends seamlessly along the axis Z.

Through this step, which is schematically represented in <FIG>, the upper portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> is deposited or moulded at least around the area identified by the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix, in particular by entering into contact at least with the second lateral part <NUM> thereof. If the upper portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> is deposited or moulded in such a way as to enter into contact with the second lateral part <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>, the second lateral part <NUM> becomes an area of contact and retention in position in the through opening of the first portion <NUM> itself. Fixing of the first portion <NUM> in the body <NUM>, in particular in the through hole, is thus optimised; the risk that the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix moves relative to the body, or is even detached from the latter, is considerably reduced compared to coupling solutions in which the absorbent matrix is interposed between two panels that are premade and/or joined to each other by mechanical interaction, for example by inserting the projecting portions thereof against each other.

<FIG> illustrates a variant of the step of positioning the upper portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> by moulding or co-moulding plastic material on the support formed by the lower portion <NUM> of the body <NUM>. In this variant, the upper portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> at least partially overlaps the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM>, thus defining an area of contact that comprises both the second lateral part <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>, and part of the upper face thereof. This configuration advantageously makes it possible to produce a body <NUM> capable of retaining at least the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> along the direction identified by the third reference axis Z, both ways. This makes it possible, during use, to reduce the risk of the first portion <NUM> being detached from the body <NUM>, in particular after punching.

A further alternative of the production process for producing the support <NUM> is described in <FIG> and <FIG>. In this further alternative, a first step of the process comprises cutting a portion of an absorbent matrix <NUM> according to a predetermined shape, after which the portion of the absorbent matrix <NUM> is positioned in a retaining device <NUM> inside a mould.

Plastic material is subsequently moulded or co-moulded or overmoulded at least around the portion of absorbent material <NUM> retained by the retaining device <NUM>. In particular, the retaining device <NUM> can retain the portion of the absorbent matrix <NUM> in such a way as to leave only the second lateral part exposed. In accordance with this aspect, the plastic material, when moulded or co-moulded or overmoulded, enters into contact at least with the second lateral part <NUM> of the portion of the absorbent matrix <NUM>. The dimensions of the retaining device <NUM> along the plane identified by the aforesaid first and second reference axes X, Y are therefore equal to the dimensions assumed, respectively, by the first portion <NUM> and second portion <NUM>. In this case, illustrated in the variant of <FIG> and <FIG>, the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> is retained exclusively by the lateral surface thereof, which is substantially oriented along the third reference axis Z.

In particular, <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate an embodiment in which the support <NUM> comprises a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM>. The second portion <NUM> is retained by means of a second retaining device <NUM>, conveniently in the same configuration as the retaining device <NUM> used to retain the portion of the absorbent matrix <NUM>.

The plastic material is subsequently moulded or co-moulded or overmoulded within the mould <NUM>, filling the space previously occupied by the cavities <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and thus forming the body <NUM>.

A variant of the production process for producing the support <NUM> described above is represented in <FIG> and <FIG>. In this further alternative, a first step of the process comprises cutting a portion of an absorbent matrix <NUM> according to a predetermined shape, after which the portion of the absorbent matrix <NUM> is positioned in a retaining device <NUM> inside a mould.

Plastic material is subsequently moulded or co-moulded or overmoulded at least around the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> retained by the retaining device <NUM>. In particular, the retaining device <NUM> can retain the portion of the absorbent matrix <NUM> in such a way as to leave only the second lateral part exposed. In accordance with this aspect, the plastic material, when moulded or co-moulded or overmoulded, enters into contact with the second lateral part <NUM> of the portion of the absorbent matrix <NUM> and with part of the lower and upper surfaces thereof. In particular, <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate an embodiment in which the support <NUM> comprises a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM>. The second portion <NUM> is retained by means of a second retaining device <NUM>, conveniently in the same configuration as the retaining device <NUM> used to retain the portion of the absorbent matrix <NUM>. The dimensions of the retaining device <NUM> along the plane identified by the aforesaid first and second reference axes X, Y are thus smaller than the dimensions assumed, respectively, by the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>. This configuration advantageously makes it possible to form the previously mentioned first and second profiles of discontinuity of thickness, thanks to which the first and second portions <NUM> are retained not only by their lateral surface <NUM>, but also in a direction parallel to the direction identified by the third reference axis Z.

The plastic material is subsequently moulded or co-moulded or overmoulded within the mould <NUM>, filling the space previously occupied by the cavities <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and thus forming the body <NUM> in a single piece, thereby obtaining a support <NUM> for biological materials as per <FIG>, which has the same features as the support <NUM> represented in <FIG>, with the difference that the upper and lower portions of the body <NUM> are in this case replaced by a single portion of body <NUM>, whose thickness is substantially given by the sum of the thicknesses of the portions mentioned previously.

For all variants of the production process described thus far, when the manufacturer selects the particular plastic material, a step of the production process can comprise identifying the temperature or interval of temperatures at which the plastic material can be correctly moulded, and, within the aforesaid interval, proceeding to select the minimum or substantially the minimum among the temperatures in the aforesaid interval in order then to proceed to heat the plastic material at the aforesaid temperature. Thanks to this aspect, it is possible to minimise the alteration of the cellulose that is part of the absorbent matrix <NUM>.

In the production process for producing the support <NUM>, if it is desired to obtain an embodiment provided with a unique identification code <NUM>, a step - preferably electronic - of assigning a unique identification number to a specific support <NUM> is performed, followed by a step of transforming the unique identification number into a visual code that is subsequently transferred onto the body <NUM> of the paper. The Applicant has observed that, in particular when the transfer takes place by means of laser, it is advisable to maintain a predetermined distance, at least equal to <NUM>-<NUM>, between the unique identification code <NUM> and at least the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM>, in order to avoid contaminations or alterations due to use of the aforesaid laser.

The Applicant has further observed that plastic materials, and particularly the ones mentioned above for the production of the body <NUM>, are subject to dimensional change according to temperature. In particular, the Applicant has observed that the coefficient of linear thermal expansion of plastics typically ranges between <NUM> and <NUM>/m/°C. The Applicant has conceived a production process that takes into account this coefficient of linear thermal expansion of plastic materials with the aim of mitigating and if possible reducing the adverse effects on the absorbent matrix <NUM>. This aspect has been noted in particular because the step of moulding or co-moulding or overmoulding are steps distinguished by the fact of having a considerable change in temperature between when the plastic is moulded or co-moulded or overmoulded and when the plastic, cooled, renders the support <NUM> ready for use. The temperature change can substantially be around <NUM> or more. With a temperature change towards cooling, the effect that can be obtained on the body <NUM> is a reduction in the overall dimensions along the first and/or second and/or third reference axis X, Y, Z, and simultaneously an increase in the size of the through opening <NUM>, for at least the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> and - if present - for the further portions <NUM>, <NUM>.

In particular the Applicant has observed that, especially where plastics with a high thermal expansion coefficient are used, the contraction of the plastic can provoke breakage of the absorbent matrix <NUM> or ungluing from the zones of contact thereof with the body <NUM>. The reduced thickness <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> makes breakage thereof by tearing particularly easy, in particular due to traction along the first reference axis X and/or along the second reference axis Y; breakage by tearing is particularly easy in particular since the matrix <NUM> has a substantially stable size, i.e. it has little elasticity. For this reason, the Applicant has advantageously conceived of a means for compensating for dimensional alterations, in particular extensions or contractions, of the body <NUM>, which is provided in the position of the absorbent matrix <NUM>.

The Applicant has likewise observed that the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> could be subject to phenomena of alteration due to extension or contraction, particularly along the first reference axis X and/or second reference axis Y, especially when the sample of biological material is deposited.

A first alternative for resolving the above-mentioned problem, before the plastic material is moulded or co-moulded or overmoulded at least around the first portion of the absorbent matrix <NUM> retained by the retaining device <NUM>, consists in leaving the portion of the absorbent matrix <NUM> limp, so that after the cooling of the plastic material, the thermal contraction thereof causes a pulling of the absorbent matrix <NUM> such as to bring it into an almost planar configuration where the first and second faces <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively upper and lower, lie in parallel planes, each of which comprises the first and second directions identified by the first and second reference axes X, Y. The first alternative is applicable both in the event that the body <NUM> is made by first forming the first lower portion <NUM> and subsequently the second upper portion <NUM>, the portions overlapping each other in the direction identified by the third reference axis Z, and in the event that the body <NUM> is made in the form of a unitary element.

A second alternative for resolving the above-described problem consists in defining, before the plastic material is moulded or co-moulded or overmoulded at least around the first portion of absorbent matrix <NUM> retained by the retaining device <NUM>, a third part <NUM> for the absorbent matrix <NUM> suitable for compensating for thermal expansions or contractions of the plastic material of the body <NUM>, both in extension and in contraction, after which the through opening <NUM> where the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM>, changes size. This second alternative is schematically represented in <FIG>. The second alternative is applicable both in the event that the body <NUM> is made by first forming the first lower portion <NUM> and subsequently the second upper portion <NUM>, which overlap each other in the direction identified by the third reference axis Z, and in the event that the body <NUM> is made in the form of a unitary element.

As may be observed in <FIG>, the third part <NUM> comprises an undulation, in particular along the plane X,Y of the surface of the absorbent matrix <NUM>. The undulation, in a preferred, but non-limiting embodiment, is formed in proximity to the perimeter of the absorbent matrix <NUM>, and more in particular extends over the whole perimeter of the absorbent matrix <NUM>. The portion of the absorbent matrix <NUM> not characterised by the presence of the third part <NUM> is substantially planar, and in particular oriented along a plane parallel to the plane identified by the first reference axis X and the second reference axis Y.

The third part <NUM>, during the phase of contraction in the size of the body <NUM> caused by cooling of the plastic material after moulding, stretches out; the undulation is progressively reduced in width until the entire free surface of the absorbent matrix <NUM> is brought into a condition of parallelism or substantial parallelism with the plane X,Y. The third part <NUM> thus has at least a first configuration of use of greater extension, suitable for compensating for an expansion of the dimensions of the through opening <NUM> for the first portion <NUM> of absorbent matrix <NUM> - due to a thermal contraction of the body <NUM> - and at least a second configuration of use of smaller extension or greater bending, suitable for compensating for a contraction of the dimensions of the through opening <NUM> for the first portion <NUM> of absorbent matrix <NUM> - due to an expansion or contraction of the body <NUM>, be it thermal or of another nature.

In order to produce the third part <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>, use can be made of a retaining device <NUM> whose surface in contact with the absorbent matrix <NUM> has a shaped profile <NUM>, and a retaining device <NUM>, opposing the previous one, whose surface in contact with the absorbent matrix <NUM> has a recess <NUM> of a shape matching that of the profile <NUM>. In other words, the step of retaining the absorbent matrix <NUM> within the mould can comprise a step of positioning the absorbent matrix <NUM> between two retaining devices <NUM> whose surface has a matching shape, so as to create the third part <NUM>, for example prior to the step of introducing plastic material into the mould.

The production process for producing the support <NUM> subsequently comprises a step of introducing the plastic material into the mould so as to create a locking of the at least a first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> onto the body <NUM>; after this step, a step of cooling the plastic material within the mould <NUM> causes a contraction of the dimensions of the body <NUM>, which comprises a variation in the dimensions of the through opening <NUM> affecting the at least a first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM>, with a consequent extension, in particular at least a partial one, of the third part <NUM> of the absorbent matrix.

The applicant has observed that the presence of a third part <NUM>, whose surface can be extended or contracted, for example due to a variation in the dimensions of the body <NUM>, advantageously avoids curvatures of the absorbent matrix <NUM> which could exceed the thickness of the first and second profiles of discontinuity of thickness <NUM>, <NUM>, so that the absorbent matrix <NUM>, if the third part <NUM> were not present, could enter into contact with potentially contaminating materials or bodies. For this reason, the third part <NUM> represents the optimal solution where it is desired to reduce the risk of accidental contacts of the absorbent matrix <NUM> with potentially contaminating materials or bodies, especially in the event that the support <NUM> is subjected, during the step of taking a biological sample or processing the same, to particular cooling or heating operations at temperatures other than typical ambient temperatures.

The present disclosure further relates to a device, not forming part of the claimed subject matter, for taking and/or analysing samples of biological material. The device comprises at least one apparatus configured to firmly grip the support <NUM>, in any of the embodiments described previously, in order to place it in a position for taking the sample of biological material. The device for taking and/or analysing samples of biological material is configured in particular to dispose a punch thereof at least over the first portion <NUM> of the absorbent matrix <NUM> where the sample of biological material has been previously deposited. Specifically, in a first operating configuration the punch enters into contact with, and in particular perforates, the absorbent matrix <NUM> in a direction preferably substantially parallel to the third reference axis Z. Said perforation is followed by a removal of a part of the absorbent matrix <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>, which is subsequently examined by means of a technique that is not the subject matter of the present application and is therefore not described.

In a particular embodiment, the device for taking and/or analysing samples of biological material can be further equipped with a processing unit electrically connected with a radio frequency stage provided with an antenna specifically conceived to read the radio-frequency identification chip <NUM>. The data processing unit can be a general purpose processor specifically configured through a software or firmware program to carry out one or more parts of the process described previously, or an ASIC or dedicated processor, specifically programmed to carry out at least part of the operations of the method or process as per the present disclosure.

Prior to the step of taking a sample of biological material, the device for taking and/or analysing samples of biological material is configured, preferably, to set itself in a second operating configuration in which the punch is positioned over the second portion <NUM>, and wherein at least part of the punch is cleaned before the sample of biological material is taken. In particular, the punch is cleaned by perforation of the second portion <NUM>, preferably along a direction substantially parallel to the direction identified by the third reference axis. After being positioned in the second operating configuration, the punch goes into the first operating configuration in order to extract the sample of biological material that will be subjected to analysis from the support <NUM>. The invention makes it possible to avoid contamination of the portion of the absorbent matrix suitable for conserving a sample of biological material. The present invention enables a simpler and more rapid cleaning of the sample-taking device. The invention further makes it possible to provide a support for biological samples having an optimal rigidity so as to avoid undesirable bending of the support and enable an efficient automatic manipulation of the support itself, thus preventing undesirable contaminations of the biological sample. The invention is moreover convenient to use, easily implementable and simple and economical to produce.

Claim 1:
A support (<NUM>) for conserving a sample of biological material, the support (<NUM>) comprising at least:
- a substantially rigid body (<NUM>) comprising at least a first through opening (<NUM>) and made in a single piece of moulded or co-moulded or overmoulded plastic material;
- at least a first portion (<NUM>) of an absorbent matrix (<NUM>), preferably made of a material comprising cellulose, suitable and intended for conserving a sample of biological material; the first portion (<NUM>) of the absorbent matrix being fixed and maintained in a predetermined position within the first through opening (<NUM>);
- wherein the first portion of the absorbent matrix (<NUM>) has at least a first part (<NUM>, <NUM>) without support from the body (<NUM>) and which is suspended inside the first through opening (<NUM>), the first part (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the first portion (<NUM>) of the absorbent matrix (<NUM>) being directly accessible to contact;
characterized in that the first portion (<NUM>) of the absorbent matrix (<NUM>) is provided with a second lateral part (<NUM>) constrained to the body (<NUM>), inserted in the body (<NUM>) and surrounded and enclosed by the body (<NUM>), which is made by moulding or co-moulding or overmoulding plastic material on the second lateral part of the first portion (<NUM>) of the absorbent matrix; the first portion (<NUM>) of the absorbent matrix (<NUM>) being maintained in a predetermined position within the first through opening (<NUM>) by means at least of the fastening, contact and/or adhesion between the second lateral part (<NUM>) of the first portion (<NUM>) of the absorbent matrix (<NUM>) and the body (<NUM>).