Patent ID: 8221606

Claim:
An electrophoresis chip for applying a voltage between ends of a groove into which an electrophoresis liquid is introduced to electrophorese a sample to be analyzed, comprising: a sample introduction groove extending along a first plane within the electrophoresis chip and dimensioned to receive the sample when introduced; an electrophoresis groove extending along a second plane that is non-intersecting and spaced apart from the first plane, at least a portion of the electrophoresis groove crossing under a portion of the sample introduction groove, opposing ends of the electrophoresis groove being provided with a voltage to separate the sample by electrophoresis; a through hole located at the crossing of the electrophoresis groove and the sample introduction groove providing fluid communication between the electrophoresis groove and the sample introduction groove; and a valve mechanism located in the through hole between the electrophoresis groove and the sample introduction groove, the valve mechanism being configured to prevent two fluids from interacting, wherein the valve mechanism includes a membrane containing dye and being capable of being destroyed by causing the dye to absorb heat generated due to light irradiation blocking fluid communication through the hole; and an irradiation unit that is configured to open the valve by providing irradiation to the membrane; and wherein the valve mechanism can be opened and closed repeatedly.