Gene sequencing pipetting components, pipetting methods, and gene sequencing systems

Abstract

This invention discloses a gene sequencing pipetting assembly, including a pipetting module and a cleaning assembly. The pipetting module includes a reagent compartment for storing reagents, a reagent needle assembly for drawing or injecting reagents, and a pipetting drive assembly for driving the movement of the reagent needle assembly. The reagent needle assembly includes a reagent needle and a pipetting pump connected to the reagent needle. The reagent needle draws reagents from the reagent compartment and injects the reagents into a flow cell assembly under the action of the pipetting pump. The cleaning assembly includes a cleaning tank for storing cleaning solution, an inner wall cleaning unit for cleaning the inner wall of the reagent needle, and an outer wall cleaning unit for cleaning the outer wall of the reagent needle. This invention also proposes a gene sequencing system and a gene sequencing pipetting method. The gene sequencing pipetting assembly, pipetting method, and gene sequencing system of this invention utilize a reagent needle to transfer all reagents, which not only effectively simplifies the structure but also facilitates cleaning.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of diagnostic technology, specifically a gene sequencing pipetting assembly, a pipetting method, and a gene sequencing system. Background Technology

[0002] Gene sequencing is a novel gene testing technology that can analyze and determine the complete gene sequence from blood or saliva, predicting the likelihood of developing various diseases, as well as an individual's behavioral characteristics and rationality. Gene sequencing technology can pinpoint individual disease-causing genes, enabling early prevention and treatment.

[0003] In existing sequencers, multiple-way valves (rotary valves, slitting valves, and three-way valve assemblies, etc.) are used to deliver different reagents to the sequencing chip (flow cell) in a specific order under positive or negative pressure. Due to the large variety of reagents and the numerous reaction zones and channels within the chip, the multiple-way valves need to have a multi-inlet, multi-outlet structure. This not only complicates the valve's structure but also necessitates a large number of connecting tubing systems. During sequencing, the tubing system needs to be cleaned to prevent cross-contamination, and the complex tubing system makes cleaning difficult. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a gene sequencing pipetting assembly, a pipetting method, and a gene sequencing system that utilizes reagents to transfer all reagents, which not only effectively simplifies the structure but also facilitates cleaning.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution:

[0006] This invention first proposes a gene sequencing pipetting assembly, including a pipetting module and a cleaning assembly;

[0007] The pipetting module includes a reagent compartment for storing reagents, a reagent needle assembly for drawing or injecting reagents, and a pipetting drive assembly for driving the reagent needle assembly to move; the reagent needle assembly includes a reagent needle and a pipetting pump connected to the reagent needle, and the reagent needle draws reagents from the reagent compartment and injects the reagents into the flow cell assembly under the action of the pipetting pump;

[0008] The cleaning assembly includes a cleaning tank for storing cleaning fluid, an inner wall cleaning unit for cleaning the inner wall of the reagent needle, and an outer wall cleaning unit for cleaning the outer wall of the reagent needle.

[0009] Furthermore, the inner wall cleaning unit includes a second three-way valve and a first cleaning pump. The two inlets of the second three-way valve are respectively connected to the pipette pump and the first cleaning pump, and one outlet of the second three-way valve is connected to the reagent needle. The inlet of the first cleaning pump is connected to the cleaning tank.

[0010] Furthermore, a first check valve is provided at the inlet of the first cleaning pump.

[0011] Furthermore, the outer wall cleaning unit includes a cleaning tank and a second cleaning pump. The cleaning tank has a cleaning liquid inlet on its side wall, the outlet of the second cleaning pump is connected to the cleaning liquid inlet, and the inlet of the second cleaning pump is connected to the cleaning tank.

[0012] Furthermore, a second check valve is provided at the inlet of the second cleaning pump.

[0013] Furthermore, the bottom of the cleaning tank is provided with a drain outlet, and a third cleaning pump is provided on the drain outlet of the cleaning tank.

[0014] Furthermore, a first drying device is provided above the cleaning pool. The first drying device is provided with a first drying hole for the reagent needle to pass through and a first air pump for drawing air from or sending air into the first drying hole.

[0015] Furthermore, the pipetting module also includes a liquid addition block, which has a liquid addition channel inside; the cleaning assembly includes a second drying device located above the liquid addition block, which has a second drying hole for the reagent needle to pass through and a second air pump for drawing air from or sending air into the second drying hole.

[0016] Furthermore, the cleaning assembly also includes a third drying device disposed on the horizontal movement path of the reagent needle. The third drying device is provided with a drying channel located on the reagent needle path for the reagent needle to pass through, and a third air pump for drawing air from the drying channel or for delivering air into the drying channel.

[0017] Furthermore, the third air-drying device is located between the liquid addition block and the reagent chamber.

[0018] The present invention also proposes a gene sequencing system, including the gene sequencing pipetting assembly described above.

[0019] This invention also proposes a gene sequencing pipetting method, comprising the following steps:

[0020] Step 1: Move the reagent needle directly above the cleaning tank and turn the first drying device on.

[0021] Step 2: Drive the reagent needle to extend vertically downwards into the cleaning tank;

[0022] Step 3: Turn on the second cleaning pump and use the outer wall cleaning unit to clean the outer wall of the reagent needle;

[0023] Switch the second three-way valve to connect the first cleaning pump to the reagent needle, and start the first cleaning pump to clean the inner wall of the reagent needle using the inner wall cleaning unit.

[0024] Step 4: Drive the reagent needle to move vertically upwards so that the tip of the reagent needle is located inside the first drying device;

[0025] Step 5: Keep the first drying device in the "off" position, turn on the first air pump to dry the outer wall of the reagent needle tip, and turn off the first air pump after drying.

[0026] Step Six: Drive the reagent needle to the reagent chamber to draw up the reagent;

[0027] Step 7: Move the reagent needle above the liquid dispensing block and keep the second drying device in the "off" position;

[0028] Step 8: Drive the reagent needle downward and position the needle tip inside the second drying device, then turn on the second air pump to dry the outer wall of the needle tip.

[0029] Step 9: After air drying is completed, control the second air drying device to be in the "on" state, drive the reagent needle to continue moving downward to dock with the liquid adding block, and the reagent needle will inject the reagent into the liquid adding channel of the liquid adding block;

[0030] Step 10: Determine if all pipetting tasks are completed: if yes, end the pipetting process; otherwise, repeat Step 1.

[0031] Furthermore, before the reagent needle draws up the reagent, the second three-way valve is switched to connect the pipetting pump to the reagent needle.

[0032] Furthermore, in step six, as the reagent needle moves toward the corresponding reagent chamber and passes through the drying channel, the third air pump is turned on to dry the outer wall of the reagent needle passing through the drying channel.

[0033] Furthermore, in step seven, as the reagent needle moves toward the liquid addition block and passes through the drying channel, the third air pump is turned on to dry the outer wall of the reagent needle as it passes through the drying channel.

[0034] Furthermore, in step six, after the reagent needle draws up the reagent, the reagent is degassed at least once. Each degassed process is as follows: the reagent in the reagent needle is driven upward by a pipette pump and passes through the degassed module, and then the reagent in the reagent needle is driven downward by a pipette pump and passes through the degassed module again.

[0035] Furthermore, before injecting the reagent from the reagent needle into the liquid addition channel, the reagent is heated below the preheating temperature required for the biochemical reaction.

[0036] Furthermore, the process of using a reagent needle to draw the i-th reagent is as follows:

[0037] (1) A certain amount of the push reagent is drawn by the reagent needle driven by the first injection pump;

[0038] (2) The reagent needle is driven by the first injection pump to draw in air and form a first air column inside the reagent needle;

[0039] (3) The reagent needle is driven by the first injection pump to draw up the i-th reagent;

[0040] (4) The reagent needle is driven by the first injection pump to draw in air and form a second air column inside the reagent needle.

[0041] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows:

[0042] The gene sequencing pipetting assembly of this invention, by incorporating a pipetting module and a pipetting drive component to move the reagent needle assembly, allows the reagent needle to be drawn from the reagent compartment using a first syringe pump and then injected into the flow cell assembly. By including a cleaning component, internal and external cleaning units effectively prevent cross-contamination between reagents by cleaning the inner and outer walls of the reagent needle, respectively. Compared to existing pipetting methods using multi-port valves, the gene sequencing pipetting assembly of this invention not only eliminates the need for extensive tubing systems but also simplifies operation by requiring only reagent needle cleaning.

[0043] The gene sequencing pipetting method of the present invention first cleans the inner and outer walls of the reagent needle in a cleaning tank. During cleaning, the first drying device is initially controlled to be in the "on" state, allowing the reagent needle to pass through the first drying device and move downwards into the cleaning tank. Then, the first cleaning pump is connected to the reagent needle via a second three-way valve, and the first and second cleaning pumps are turned on. The first cleaning pump draws cleaning solution from the cleaning tank and injects it into the cleaning tank to clean the outer wall of the reagent needle; the second cleaning pump directly pumps cleaning solution into the reagent needle to clean the inner wall of the reagent needle. After the inner and outer walls of the reagent needle are cleaned, the reagent needle is controlled to move upwards. When the tip of the reagent needle is located inside the first drying device, the first... With the air-drying device in the "off" state, the first air pump is activated to use airflow to dry the needle tip, preventing liquid from adhering to the tip. Thus, ensuring the reagent needle is clean and free of liquid on its outer wall, the needle is driven to the reagent chamber to draw up the reagent. After drawing up the reagent, the needle moves above the dispensing block. At this point, the second air-drying device is switched off, allowing the needle tip to enter the second air-drying device. The second controller is then activated to dry the outer wall of the reagent needle, preventing liquid from contaminating the dispensing block. After drying, the second air-drying device is switched on, allowing the reagent needle to continue moving downwards and docking with the dispensing block. The reagent needle then injects the reagent into the flow cell assembly through the dispensing channel within the dispensing block, completing the transfer process. In summary, the gene sequencing pipetting method of the present invention, after cleaning the inner and outer walls of the reagent needle with a cleaning solution, then drying the outer wall of the reagent needle with a first drying device, and after sampling with the reagent needle, drying the outer wall of the reagent needle with a second drying device, not only meets the pipetting requirements, but also effectively avoids contamination of the reagent and the dispensing block by liquid adhering to the outer wall of the reagent needle.

[0044] During the process of the reagent needle moving towards the reagent chamber and towards the liquid dispensing block, the outer wall of the reagent needle is dried by the third drying device, which can further improve the drying effect, reduce the time required to dry the outer wall of the reagent needle, and improve the pipetting efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0045] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and beneficial effects of this invention clearer, the following figures are provided for illustration:

[0046] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the gene sequencing system of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the flow cell assembly.

[0048] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first pipetting module;

[0049] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the reagent needle.

[0050] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the fit between the reagent needle and the liquid dispensing block;

[0051] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the first air-drying device;

[0052] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the second air-drying device;

[0053] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the third air-drying device;

[0054] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the switching valve.

[0055] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of the gene sequencing pipetting method of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of the gene sequencing method of the present invention.

[0057] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0058] 100-Flow cell assembly; 101-Flow cell; 102-Reaction channel; 103-Inlet manifold; 1031-Inlet pipe; 1032-Inlet branch pipe; 1033-Valve; 104-Outlet manifold; 1041-Outlet pipe; 1042-Outlet branch pipe;

[0059] 200-First pipetting module; 201-Reagent needle; 2011-Needle tube; 2012-Needle sheath; 2013-Needle tip; 2014-Conical neck; 202-First syringe pump; 203-Liquid dispensing block; 2031-Sealing ring; 2032-Connector; 204-Liquid dispensing channel; 2041-Sealing section; 2042-Receiving section; 2043-Output section; 205-First three-way valve; 206-Connecting pipe; 207-Manifold; 208-Manifold outlet; 209-Degassing module; 210-Reagent compartment; 211-Ambient temperature zone; 212-Refrigerated zone; 213-Liquid level; 214-Second three-way valve; 215-First cleaning pump; 2151-Check valve; 216-Cleaning tank; 2161-Cleaning solution inlet; 2162-Drain outlet; 217-Second cleaning pump; 2171-Check valve; 218-Third cleaning pump; 219-First drying device; 2191-First drying port; 2192-First drying module; 220-First air pump; 221-Second drying device; 2211-Second drying port; 2212-Second drying module; 222-Second air pump; 223-Third drying device; 2231-Drying channel; 224-Third air pump; 225-Reagent pusher tank; 226-Cleaning bucket;

[0060] 300 - Second pipetting module; 301 - Second syringe pump; 302 - Third three-way valve;

[0061] 400 - Reuse module; 401 - Switching valve; 402 - Reuse storage tank; 403 - Liquid inlet; 404 - Waste outlet; 405 - Reuse port; 406 - Plug position;

[0062] 500-Waste liquid tank. Detailed Implementation

[0063] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments, so that those skilled in the art can better understand and implement the present invention. However, the embodiments described are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0064] Example 1

[0065] like Figure 1 The gene sequencing system of this embodiment includes a flow cell assembly 100, a gene sequencing pipetting assembly, a second pipetting module 300, a reuse module 400, and a waste container 500. The gene sequencing pipetting assembly of this embodiment includes a pipetting module (hereinafter referred to as "first pipetting module 200") and a cleaning assembly. Specifically, the flow cell assembly 100 provides a site for biochemical reactions. The first pipetting module 200 is used to inject reagents into the flow cell assembly 100. The reuse module 400 is used to transfer liquids. The second pipetting module 300 is connected to the flow cell assembly 100 and is used to receive liquids from the flow cell assembly 100 and transfer the liquids into the reuse module 400. The waste container 500 is used to store waste liquids.

[0066] like Figure 2As shown, the flow cell assembly 100 of this embodiment includes a flow cell 101, within which reaction channels 102 are arranged side-by-side. In this embodiment, the flow cell 101 has four reaction channels 102 arranged side-by-side. Specifically, the number of reaction channels 102 can be set according to actual needs, such as one, two, three, five, or more, etc., which will not be elaborated further. The flow cell assembly 100 of this embodiment includes an inlet manifold 103 and an outlet manifold 104 located at the inlet and outlet ends of the flow cell 101, respectively. The inlet manifold 103 of this embodiment includes an inlet pipe 1031 and an inlet branch pipe 1032 connected to the inlet pipe 1031. The inlet branch pipe 1032 is arranged one-to-one with each reaction channel 102, and the inlet branch pipe 1032 is connected to the corresponding reaction channel 102. Thus, reagents are injected into the corresponding reaction channels 102 through the inlet pipe 1031 and the inlet branch pipe 1032. Specifically, in this embodiment, the inlet branch pipe 1032 is equipped with a valve 1033. The valve 1033 controls the opening and closing of the inlet branch pipe 1032, thereby controlling the reagent to selectively enter the corresponding reaction channel 102. In this embodiment, the outlet manifold 104 includes an outlet pipe 1041 and an outlet branch pipe 1042 connected to the outlet pipe 1041. The outlet branch pipe 1042 is configured one-to-one with the reaction channel 102, and the outlet branch pipe 1042 is connected to the corresponding reaction channel 102. The outlet pipe 1041 is connected to the second pipetting module 300. In a preferred embodiment, the flow cell assembly 100 further includes a reaction heating device (not shown in the figure) for heating the flow cell 101. The reaction heating device is used to heat the reagent in the flow cell 101 to the temperature required for the biochemical reaction.

[0067] like Figure 3 As shown, the gene sequencing pipetting assembly of this embodiment includes a pipetting module (hereinafter referred to as "first pipetting module 200") and a washing assembly. The first pipetting module 200 of this embodiment includes a reagent compartment 210 for storing reagents, a reagent needle assembly for drawing or injecting reagents, and a pipetting drive assembly for driving the movement of the reagent needle assembly. In this embodiment, the reagent needle assembly includes a reagent needle 201 and a first injection pump 202 connected to the reagent needle 201. Under the action of the first injection pump 202, the reagent needle 201 draws reagents from the reagent compartment 210 and injects the reagents into the flow cell assembly 100. Specifically, as... Figure 4As shown, the reagent needle 201 in this embodiment includes a needle tube 2011 and a needle sleeve 2012 fitted over the needle tube 2011. The lower end of the needle tube 2011 extends beyond the needle sleeve 2012 and forms a needle tip 2013. The lower end of the needle sleeve 2012 has a tapered constriction 2014. In a preferred embodiment, the needle sleeve 2012 is provided with a preheating device (not shown in the figure) for preheating the reagent in the reagent needle 2011. By providing the preheating device, the reagent in the reagent needle 201 can be preheated to near or equal to the biochemical reaction temperature. Thus, after the reagent is injected into the flow cell 101, the reagent can quickly reach the temperature required for the biochemical reaction in the flow cell 101, improving efficiency. In this embodiment, a push reagent pool 225 is connected to the first injection pump 202, and the push reagent pool 225 contains push reagent.

[0068] The first pipetting module 200 in this embodiment also includes a liquid addition block 203. The liquid addition block 203 has a liquid addition channel 204, which communicates with the flow cell 101. Specifically, the liquid addition channel is connected to the inlet pipe 1031. The liquid addition block 203 is mainly used to dock with the reagent needle 201, so that the reagent needle 201 can inject the drawn reagent into the flow cell 101 through the liquid addition block 203. Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the liquid addition channel 204 includes a sealing section 2041 for a tight fit with the needle sheath 2012, a receiving section 2042 for accommodating the needle tip 2013, and an output section 2043 for discharging reagents. The sealing section 2041 is located above the output section 2043, and the receiving section 2042 is located between the output section 2043 and the sealing section 2041. The sealing section 2041 contains a sealing ring 2031 for a tight fit with the tapered end 2014 of the needle sheath 2012. This ensures that a closed channel is formed between the needle tube 2011 and the reaction channel 102 during the injection of reagents into the flow cell 101 by the reagent needle 201. In this embodiment, the lower end of the liquid addition block 204 is provided with a connector 2032 for connection to the inlet manifold 103 or other components connected to the inlet manifold 103, thereby connecting the liquid addition channel 204 to the inlet pipe 1031.

[0069] In this embodiment, the first liquid transfer module 200 further includes a first three-way valve 205, the inlet of which is connected to the liquid addition channel 204. One outlet of the first three-way valve 205 is connected to the liquid inlet pipe 1031, and the other outlet is connected to the waste liquid tank 500. Thus, by setting the first three-way valve 205, liquid can be selected to enter the flow tank 101 or the waste liquid tank 500.

[0070] Specifically, the reagent needle assembly can be one or two. When there are at least two reagent needle assemblies, the first pipetting module 200 also includes a manifold assembly. The manifold assembly includes connecting pipes 206 that correspond one-to-one with the reagent needle assemblies. The upper end of the connecting pipes 206 is connected to the liquid addition block 203, and the lower end of all connecting pipes 206 is provided with a manifold plate 207. The lowest position of the manifold plate 207 is provided with a manifold outlet 208. In this embodiment, the manifold outlet 208 is connected to the first three-way valve 205. In this embodiment, there are two reagent needle assemblies, that is, in this embodiment, the liquid addition channel 204 is connected to the first three-way valve 205 through the connecting pipes 206, the manifold plate 207, and the manifold outlet 208. In this way, reagents can be injected into the flow cell 101 through multiple reagent needles 201 respectively, thereby improving efficiency.

[0071] In this embodiment, to drive the reagent needle assembly to move and draw reagent at a set position and inject the reagent into the liquid delivery channel 204, the pipetting drive assembly drives the reagent needle assembly to move along three mutually perpendicular directions, including a vertical direction and two mutually perpendicular horizontal directions. Of course, in other embodiments, the pipetting drive assembly can also drive the reagent needle assembly to move along a first horizontal direction and a vertical direction, while simultaneously providing a reagent cartridge drive assembly to drive the reagent cartridge 210 to move along a second horizontal direction. The first and second horizontal directions are perpendicular to each other, which also achieves the technical objective of driving the reagent needle 201 to move relative to the reagent cartridge 210 in three mutually perpendicular directions.

[0072] like Figure 3 As shown, the reagent compartment 210 of this embodiment has multiple storage areas, including a room temperature area 211 for room temperature storage and a refrigerated area 212 for cold storage. The room temperature area 211 stores reagents that need to be stored at room temperature, while the refrigerated area 212 stores reagents that need to be stored under refrigeration. In other embodiments, the storage area includes a room temperature area 211 for room temperature storage, a refrigerated area 212 for cold storage, and a frozen area for cryopreservation. The frozen area stores reagents that need to be stored under freezing conditions, such as lyophilized bulbs. The liquid storage levels within the storage areas can be implemented in various ways. In this embodiment, multiple liquid storage levels 213 are arranged in a rectangular array within the storage area. In other embodiments, at least one liquid storage level 213 can be spaced along a straight line within the storage area. In still other embodiments, a turntable can be provided within the storage area, with at least one annular liquid storage area on the turntable, and each annular liquid storage area has at least one liquid storage level.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment of this invention, a degassing module 209 for degassing the reagent is provided between the reagent needle 201 and the first injection pump 202. The process of degassing the reagent using the degassing module 209 is as follows: after the first injection pump 202 drives the reagent needle 201 to draw up the reagent, the first injection pump 202 drives the reagent in the reagent needle 201 through the degassing module 209, and then drives the reagent in the reagent needle 201 to flow in the reverse direction back into the reagent needle 201 and through the degassing module 209. This process is repeated at least once through the degassing module 209 to remove air bubbles from the reagent.

[0074] like Figure 3As shown, the cleaning assembly in this embodiment includes a cleaning tank 226 for storing cleaning fluid, an inner wall cleaning unit for cleaning the inner wall of the reagent needle 201, and an outer wall cleaning unit for cleaning the outer wall of the reagent needle. Specifically, in this embodiment, the inner wall cleaning unit includes a second three-way valve 214 and a first cleaning pump 215. The two inlets of the second three-way valve 214 are respectively connected to the first injection pump 202 and the first cleaning pump 215, and one outlet of the second three-way valve 214 is connected to the reagent needle 201. The inlet of the first cleaning pump 215 is connected to the cleaning tank 226. Thus, when it is necessary to clean the inner wall of the reagent needle 201, the first cleaning pump 215 is connected to the reagent needle 201 via the second three-way valve 214, while the first injection pump 202 is disconnected from the reagent needle 201. The first cleaning pump 215 draws cleaning fluid from the cleaning tank 226 to clean the inner wall of the reagent needle 201. When it is necessary to transfer reagents from the reagent needle 201, the first cleaning pump 215 is disconnected from the reagent needle 201 via the second three-way valve 214, while the first injection pump 202 is connected to the reagent needle 201. The outer wall cleaning unit of this embodiment includes a cleaning tank 216 and a second cleaning pump 217. A cleaning fluid inlet 2161 is provided on the side wall of the cleaning tank 216. The outlet of the second cleaning pump 217 is connected to the cleaning fluid inlet 2161, and the inlet of the second cleaning pump 217 is connected to the cleaning tank 226. When it is necessary to clean the outer wall of the reagent needle 201, the needle tip 2013 of the reagent needle 201 is inserted into the cleaning tank 216. When the second cleaning pump 217 draws out the cleaning solution, a fountain forms in the cleaning tank 216, cleaning the outer wall of the reagent needle 201. The bottom of the cleaning tank 216 is provided with a drain port 2162. A third cleaning pump 218 is provided between the drain port 2162 and the waste liquid tank 500. Using the third cleaning pump 218, the liquid in the cleaning tank 216 can be quickly discharged into the waste liquid tank 500. Of course, in this embodiment, the inner wall of the reagent needle 201 can also be cleaned in the cleaning tank 216. That is, the cleaning solution for cleaning the inner wall of the reagent needle 201 can be discharged into the waste liquid tank 500 through the drain port 2162, so that the cleaning of the inner and outer walls of the reagent needle 201 is carried out simultaneously. In this embodiment, a check valve 2151 is provided at the inlet of the first cleaning pump 215, and a check valve 2171 is provided at the inlet of the second cleaning pump 217, to prevent liquid from flowing back into the cleaning tank 216 and contaminating the cleaning solution.

[0075] In a preferred embodiment of this example, a first drying device 219 is provided above the cleaning tank 216. The first drying device 219 has a first drying hole 2191 for the reagent needle 201 to pass through. The diameter of the first drying hole 2191 is adjustable so that the first drying device 219 has two states: "on" and "off". When the first drying device 219 is in the "on" state, the diameter of the first drying hole 2191 is at its maximum, allowing the needle sheath 2012 to pass through. When the first drying device 219 is in the "off" state, the diameter of the first drying hole 2191 is at its minimum, allowing the needle tip 2013 to pass through but blocking the needle sheath 2012. Thus, when cleaning the inner and outer walls of the reagent needle 201, the first drying device 219 is in the "on" state, allowing the reagent needle 201 to pass through the first drying hole 2191 and enter the cleaning tank 216. When the reagent needle 201 is removed from the cleaning tank 216, the outer wall of the reagent needle 201 can be dried using the first drying device 219. Specifically, when the reagent needle 201 moves upward and the needle tip 2013 is located inside the first drying device 219, the first drying device 219 is controlled to be in the "off" state. At this time, the first air pump 220 is activated to draw air from or inject air into the first drying hole 2191, and the airflow formed by the air is used to dry the needle tip 2013. Specifically, there are various ways to make the first drying device 219 have two states, "on" and "off". In this embodiment, the first drying device 219 includes two first drying modules 2192, the first drying hole 2191 is disposed between the two first drying modules 2192, and the two first drying modules 2192 can move relative to each other to adjust the "on" and "off" states of the first drying device 219. When the first drying device 219 is in the "on" state, the distance between the two first drying modules 2192 is at its maximum, and the first drying hole 2191 allows the needle sheath to pass through; when the first drying device 219 is in the "off" state, the distance between the two first drying modules 2192 is at its minimum, and the first drying hole 2191 allows the needle tip 2013 to pass through but blocks the needle sheath 2012. Figure 6 As shown.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment of this example, the cleaning assembly includes a second drying device 221 located above the liquid addition block 203. The second drying device 221 has a second drying hole 2211 for the reagent needle to pass through. The diameter of the second drying hole 2211 is adjustable so that the second drying device 221 has two states: "on" and "off". When the second drying device 221 is in the "on" state, the diameter of the second drying hole 2211 is at its maximum, allowing the needle sheath 2012 to pass through. When the second drying device 221 is in the "off" state, the diameter of the second drying hole 2211 is at its minimum, allowing the needle tip 2013 to pass through but blocking the needle sheath 2012. During the docking process between the reagent needle 201 and the liquid adding block 203, the second drying device 221 can be kept in the "off" state first. The needle tip 2013 is placed in the second drying hole 2211, and the second air pump 222 is started to draw air from or inject air into the second drying hole 2211. The airflow formed by the air dries the needle tip 2013. After the outer wall of the needle tip 2013 is dried, the second drying device 221 is then kept in the "on" state, causing the reagent needle 201 to move downwards and dock with the liquid adding block 203. Similarly, in this embodiment, the second drying device 221 includes two second drying modules 2212, and a second drying hole 2211 is disposed between the two second drying modules 2212. The two second drying modules 2212 can move relative to each other to adjust the "on" and "off" states of the second drying device 221. When the second drying device 221 is in the "on" state, the distance between the two second drying modules 2212 is at its maximum, and the second drying hole 2211 allows the needle sheath 2012 to pass through. When the second drying device 221 is in the "off" state, the distance between the two second drying modules 2212 is at its minimum, and the second drying hole 2211 allows the needle tip 2013 to pass through but blocks the needle sheath 2012. Figure 7 As shown.

[0077] In a preferred embodiment of this example, the cleaning assembly further includes a third drying device 223 disposed on the horizontal movement path of the reagent needle 201. The third drying device 223 is provided with a drying channel 2231 located on the horizontal movement path of the reagent needle 201 and allowing the reagent needle 201 to pass through, and a third air pump 224 for drawing or delivering air from the drying channel 2231. Figure 8 As shown. Specifically, the reagent needle 201 can be controlled to have a fixed horizontal movement path when it reciprocates between the reagent chamber 210 and the liquid addition block 203. A third drying device 223 is set on this horizontal movement path. Each time the reagent needle 201 passes through the drying channel 2231, it is dried, which further enhances the drying effect. Moreover, the drying process does not affect the movement of the reagent needle 201, which can improve efficiency.

[0078] like Figure 1As shown, the second pipetting module 300 in this embodiment includes a second injection pump 301 and a third three-way valve 302. The third three-way valve 302 connects the second injection pump 301 to the inlet of the flow cell assembly 100 or the switching valve 401. Thus, when the reagent needle 201 is aligned with the dispensing block 203 and the first reagent pump 102 drives the reagent needle 201 to inject reagent into the flow cell 101, the third three-way valve 302 controls the second injection pump 301 to connect with the flow cell assembly 100. As the reagent in the reagent needle 201 flows toward the flow cell 101, the reagent in the flow cell 101 flows toward the second injection pump 301. After the reagent in the reagent needle 201 enters the flow cell 101, the original reagent in the flow cell 101 enters the second injection pump 301. During the biochemical reaction of the reagents in the flow cell 101, the second injection pump 301 is connected to the switching valve via the third three-way valve 302. The second injection pump 301 transfers the reagents within the flow cell to the corresponding position via the switching valve. Alternatively, when the first injection pump 202 drives the reagent in the reagent needle 201 towards the flow cell 101, the first injection pump 202 applies positive pressure to the reagent. In a preferred embodiment, the second injection pump 301 can also apply negative pressure to the reagent, causing it to move towards the second injection pump 301. This not only increases the reagent flow rate but also effectively reduces the liquid pressure within the flow cell 101. In this embodiment, the second injection pump 301 is also connected to the waste liquid tank 500, allowing waste liquid to be directly discharged into the waste liquid tank via the second injection pump 301.

[0079] like Figure 1As shown, the reuse module 400 in this embodiment includes a switching valve 401 and a reuse storage assembly. The reuse storage assembly in this embodiment is equipped with a reuse storage tank 402 corresponding to each reagent. The switching valve 401 has an inlet 403 and several outlets. The inlet 403 is connected to the second pipetting module 300, that is, the inlet 403 is connected to the second syringe pump 301 through a third three-way valve 302. In this embodiment, the outlets include a waste outlet 404 connected to a waste container 500 and reuse outlets 405 corresponding to the reuse storage tanks 402. The reuse outlets 405 are connected to the corresponding reuse storage tanks 402. In a preferred embodiment, the waste outlets 404 and 405 are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence, and the corresponding reuse outlets 405 and waste outlets 404 are arranged adjacent to each other, thus avoiding cross-contamination between different reagents. In a preferred embodiment of this example, the switching valve 401 is further provided with a plugging position 406. When the switching valve 401 is switched to the plugging position 406, the inlet 403 of the switching valve 401 is disconnected from the second injection pump 301. In this embodiment, the inlet 403 of the switching valve 401 is located at the center of the switching valve 401, and the outlets are evenly distributed in a ring around the axis of the switching valve 401. In a preferred embodiment of this example, the reuse storage tank 402 is located inside the reagent compartment 210, eliminating the need for a separate storage compartment for the reuse storage tank 402. Figure 9 As shown, in this embodiment, the switching valve 401 is provided with 4 reuse ports 405, 4 waste liquid ports 404 and a plug position 406. Specifically, the reuse storage tank 402 is also provided with 4 corresponding ports.

[0080] Example 2

[0081] like Figure 10 As shown, the gene sequencing pipetting method of this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0082] Step 1: Move the reagent needle 201 directly above the cleaning tank 216 and control the first drying device 219 to be in the "on" state. At this time, the reagent needle 201 can pass through the first drying hole 2191.

[0083] Step 2: Drive the reagent needle 201 to extend vertically downwards into the cleaning tank 216.

[0084] Step 3: Turn on the second cleaning pump 217 to inject the cleaning solution in the cleaning tank 226 into the cleaning pool 216 through the cleaning solution inlet 2161. A fountain will be formed in the cleaning pool 216, and the outer wall cleaning unit will be used to clean the outer wall of the reagent needle 201.

[0085] Switch the second three-way valve 214 to connect the first cleaning pump 215 to the reagent needle 201, and start the first cleaning pump 215 to inject the cleaning solution in the cleaning tank 226 into the reagent needle 201 through the second three-way valve 214 to clean the inner wall of the reagent needle 201. That is, use the inner wall cleaning unit to clean the inner wall of the reagent needle 201.

[0086] Step 4: Drive the reagent needle 201 to move vertically upward so that the tip of the reagent needle 201 is located inside the first drying device 219.

[0087] Step 5: Control the first drying device 219 to be in the "off" state. At this time, only the needle tip 2013 can pass through the first drying hole 2191. Turn on the first air pump 220 to dry the outer wall of the needle tip 2013 of the reagent needle 201. After drying, turn off the first air pump 220.

[0088] Step Six: Drive the reagent needle 201 to the corresponding reuse reservoir 402 or reservoir level 213. Specifically, in the preferred embodiment of this example, as the reagent needle 201 moves toward the corresponding reuse reservoir 402 or reservoir level 213 and passes through the drying channel 2231, the third air pump 224 is turned on to dry the outer wall of the reagent needle 201 that has passed through the drying channel 2231.

[0089] In addition, after the reagent needle 201 is cleaned, before the reagent needle 201 draws the i-th reagent, the second three-way valve 214 is switched to connect the first injection pump 202 to the reagent needle 201.

[0090] In this embodiment, the process of using reagent needle 201 to draw the i-th reagent is as follows:

[0091] (1) The reagent needle 201 is driven by the first injection pump 202 to draw a certain amount of push reagent from the push reagent pool 225;

[0092] (2) Air is quantitatively drawn into the reagent needle 201 by the first injection pump 202, and a first air column is formed in the reagent needle 201;

[0093] (3) The reagent needle 201 is driven by the first injection pump 202 to quantitatively draw the i-th reagent;

[0094] (4) The reagent needle 201 is driven by the first injection pump 202 to draw air quantitatively and form a second air column in the reagent needle 201.

[0095] In a preferred embodiment of this invention, after the reagent needle 201 draws in the i-th reagent, the i-th reagent undergoes at least one degassing process. Each degassing process involves: using the first injection pump 202 to drive the i-th reagent in the reagent needle 201 upwards and through the degassing module 209, and then using the first injection pump 202 to drive the i-th reagent in the reagent needle 201 downwards and through the degassing module 209 again. This process is repeated at least once to remove air bubbles from the i-th reagent.

[0096] Step 7: Move the reagent needle 201 above the liquid adding block 203 and keep the second drying device 221 in the "off" state. At this time, only the needle tip 2013 can pass through the second drying hole 2211. As the reagent needle 201 moves toward the liquid adding block 203 and passes through the drying channel 2231, turn on the third air pump 224 to dry the outer wall of the reagent needle 201 that has passed through the drying channel 2231.

[0097] Step 8: Drive the reagent needle 201 downward and position the needle tip 2013 of the reagent needle 201 inside the second drying device 221, and turn on the second air pump 222 to dry the outer wall of the needle tip 2013 of the reagent needle 201.

[0098] Step 9: After air drying is completed, turn off the second air pump 222 and control the second air drying device 221 to be in the "on" state. At this time, the entire reagent needle 201 can pass through the second air drying hole 2211, driving the reagent needle 201 to continue to move downward to dock with the liquid adding block 203. The reagent needle 201 injects the reagent into the liquid adding channel 204 of the liquid adding block 203, and the reagent is injected into the flow cell 101 through the liquid adding channel 204.

[0099] Specifically, in a preferred embodiment of this example, before injecting the i-th reagent in the reagent needle 201 into the flow cell 101 through the liquid addition block 203, the i-th reagent is heated to a temperature lower than the preheating temperature required for the biochemical reaction. The preheating temperature can be slightly lower than the biochemical reaction temperature or equal to the biochemical reaction temperature. In this way, when the i-th reagent is injected into the flow cell 101, the i-th reagent can quickly reach the biochemical reaction temperature.

[0100] Step 10: Determine if all pipetting tasks are completed: if yes, end the pipetting process; otherwise, repeat Step 1.

[0101] Example 3

[0102] The following section provides a detailed explanation of the specific implementation methods of gene sequencing methods in conjunction with the gene sequencing system described above.

[0103] like Figure 11 As shown, the gene sequencing method in this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0104] Step 1: Start gene sequencing, set i=1.

[0105] Specifically, in this embodiment, the tubing system is cleaned when gene sequencing is initiated. There are several methods for cleaning the tubing system; this embodiment illustrates two methods. The first method for cleaning the tubing is as follows: First, the first syringe pump 202 drives the reagent needle 201 to draw cleaning solution from the cleaning tank 216; then, the reagent needle 201 is connected to the liquid addition block 203, and the second syringe pump 301 is connected to the flow cell 101 via the third three-way valve 302. The cleaning solution in the reagent needle 201 is injected into the second syringe pump 301 through the flow cell 101 via the first syringe pump 202; finally, the cleaning solution is discharged into the waste liquid tank 500 via the second syringe pump 301. During the process of injecting the cleaning solution in the reagent needle 201 into the flow cell 101 and the second syringe pump 301, the first syringe pump 202 applies a pushing force (positive pressure) to the cleaning solution, and the second syringe pump 301 applies a suction force (negative pressure) to the cleaning solution. The second method for cleaning the pipeline is as follows: First, connect the first cleaning pump 215 to the reagent needle 201 through the second three-way valve 214; and connect the reagent needle 201 to the liquid addition block 203; control the second injection pump 301 to connect to the flow cell 101 through the third three-way valve 302; then, start the first cleaning pump 215 and inject the cleaning solution into the second injection pump 301 through the reagent needle 201 and the flow cell 101; finally, turn off the first cleaning pump 215 and use the second injection pump 301 to discharge the cleaning solution into the waste liquid tank 500.

[0106] Step 2: Determine whether the reused i-th reagent is stored in the reuse storage tank 402 corresponding to the i-th reagent: if yes, use the reagent needle 201 to draw the i-th reagent from the reuse storage tank 402; if no, use the reagent needle 201 to draw the i-th reagent from the corresponding storage level 213.

[0107] Specifically, before reagent needle 201 draws the i-th reagent, reagent needle 201 needs to be cleaned, and the steps for cleaning reagent needle 201 are as follows:

[0108] 21) Move the reagent needle 201 directly above the cleaning tank 216 and control the first drying device 219 to be in the "on" state. At this time, the reagent needle 201 can pass through the first drying hole 2191.

[0109] 22) Drive the reagent needle 201 to extend into the cleaning tank 216 in a vertically downward direction.

[0110] 23) Turn on the second cleaning pump 217 to inject the cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank 226 into the cleaning pool 216 through the cleaning liquid inlet 2161. A spring is formed in the cleaning pool 216, and the outer wall cleaning unit is used to clean the outer wall of the reagent needle 201.

[0111] Switch the second three-way valve 214 to connect the first cleaning pump 215 to the reagent needle 201, and start the first cleaning pump 215 to inject the cleaning solution in the cleaning tank 226 into the reagent needle 201 through the second three-way valve 214 to clean the inner wall of the reagent needle 201. That is, use the inner wall cleaning unit to clean the inner wall of the reagent needle 201.

[0112] 24) Drive the reagent needle 201 to move in a vertically upward direction so that the tip of the reagent needle 201 is located inside the first drying device 219.

[0113] 25) Control the first drying device 219 to be in the "off" state. At this time, only the needle tip 2013 can pass through the first drying hole 2191. Turn on the first air pump 220 to dry the outer wall of the needle tip 2013 of the reagent needle 201. After drying, turn off the first air pump 220.

[0114] 26) Drive the reagent needle 201 to the corresponding reuse reservoir 402 or reservoir level 213. Specifically, in the preferred embodiment of this example, as the reagent needle 201 moves toward the corresponding reuse reservoir 402 or reservoir level 213 and passes through the drying channel 2231, the third air pump 224 is turned on to dry the outer wall of the reagent needle 201 that has passed through the drying channel 2231.

[0115] In addition, after the reagent needle 201 is cleaned, before the reagent needle 201 draws the i-th reagent, the second three-way valve 214 is switched to connect the first injection pump 202 to the reagent needle 201.

[0116] In this embodiment, the process of using reagent needle 201 to draw the i-th reagent is as follows:

[0117] (1) The reagent needle 201 is driven by the first injection pump 202 to draw a certain amount of push reagent from the push reagent pool 225;

[0118] (2) Air is quantitatively drawn into the reagent needle 201 by the first injection pump 202, and a first air column is formed in the reagent needle 201;

[0119] (3) The reagent needle 201 is driven by the first injection pump 202 to quantitatively draw the i-th reagent;

[0120] (4) The reagent needle 201 is driven by the first injection pump 202 to draw air quantitatively and form a second air column in the reagent needle 201.

[0121] In a preferred embodiment of this invention, after the reagent needle 201 draws in the i-th reagent, the i-th reagent undergoes at least one degassing process. Each degassing process involves: using the first injection pump 202 to drive the i-th reagent in the reagent needle 201 upwards and through the degassing module 209, and then using the first injection pump 202 to drive the i-th reagent in the reagent needle 201 downwards and through the degassing module 209 again. This process is repeated at least once to remove air bubbles from the i-th reagent.

[0122] Step 3: Move the reagent needle 201 to the liquid addition block 203 and connect it to the liquid addition block 203; control the second injection pump 301 to connect to the flow cell 101 through the third three-way valve 302. Specifically, the process of connecting the reagent needle 201 to the liquid addition block 203 is as follows: control the second drying device 221 to be in the "off" state, at which time only the needle tip 2013 can pass through the second drying hole 2211, drive the reagent needle 201 to move downward and place the needle tip 2013 of the reagent needle 201 inside the second drying device 221, turn on the second air pump 222 to dry the outer wall of the needle tip 2013 of the reagent needle 201; after drying is completed, turn off the second air pump 222 and control the second drying device 221 to be in the "on" state, at which time the entire reagent needle 201 can pass through the second drying hole 2211, drive the reagent needle 201 to continue to move downward to connect with the liquid addition block 203.

[0123] Specifically, in a preferred embodiment of this example, as the reagent needle 201 moves toward the liquid addition block 203 and passes through the drying channel 2231, the third air pump 224 is turned on to dry the outer wall of the reagent needle 201 that has passed through the drying channel 2231.

[0124] Step 4: The first injection pump 202 drives the reagent needle 201 to inject the i-th reagent, which is injected into the flow cell 101 through the liquid addition channel 204 in the liquid addition block 203; at the same time, the original reagent in the flow cell 101 is driven into the second injection pump 301.

[0125] Specifically, in this embodiment, the process of injecting the i-th reagent into the flow cell 101 is as follows: the first three-way valve 205 is switched to be connected to the waste liquid tank 500, and the first injection pump 202 drives the reagent needle 201 to inject the i-th reagent; when the i-th reagent passes through the outlet of the first three-way valve 205 connected to the waste liquid tank 500, the first injection pump 202 is closed, and the first three-way valve 205 is switched to be connected to the flow cell 101; the first injection pump 202 is restarted to drive the reagent needle 201 to inject the i-th reagent, and after the i-th reagent enters the flow cell 101, the first injection pump 202 is closed. In a preferred embodiment of this embodiment, during the process of injecting the i-th reagent into the flow cell 101, the first injection pump 202 is started to apply a pushing force (positive pressure) to the i-th reagent, and the second injection pump 301 is started to apply a suction force (negative pressure) to the i-th reagent. In this way, the flow rate of the i-th reagent can be increased and the pressure on the flow cell 101 can be reduced.

[0126] Specifically, in a preferred embodiment of this example, before injecting the i-th reagent in the reagent needle 201 into the flow cell 101 through the liquid addition block 203, the i-th reagent is heated to a temperature lower than the preheating temperature required for the biochemical reaction. The preheating temperature can be slightly lower than the biochemical reaction temperature or equal to the biochemical reaction temperature. In this way, when the i-th reagent is injected into the flow cell 101, the i-th reagent can quickly reach the biochemical reaction temperature.

[0127] Step 5: The i-th reagent undergoes a biochemical reaction in the flow cell 101. During the biochemical reaction, the i-th reagent in the flow cell 101 is heated to the required reaction temperature, so that the i-th reagent participates in the biochemical reaction under the set temperature environment.

[0128] Specifically, the process of the i-th reagent undergoing a biochemical reaction in the flow cell 101 is as follows:

[0129] 11) Synthesis: The i-th nucleotide and the i-th polymerase undergo a polymerization reaction to extend the sequencing primer, so that the i-th nucleotide binds to the nucleic acid molecule;

[0130] 12) Photographing: Excite the detectable tag and acquire the signal of the detectable tag;

[0131] 13) Cutting: The blocking group and detectable label of the i-th nucleotide are removed using a cutting reagent.

[0132] During this process, the second injection pump is connected to the inlet of the switching valve by the third three-way valve; it is determined whether the reagent in the second injection pump meets the reuse conditions: if yes, the switching valve is switched to the reuse port corresponding to the reagent, and the second injection pump transfers the reagent to the corresponding reuse storage tank through the switching valve; if no, the switching valve is switched to the waste liquid port, and the second injection pump transfers the reagent to the waste liquid tank through the switching valve.

[0133] During this process, determine whether the current gene sequencing task is completed: if yes, the current sequencing task ends; if no, let i = i + 1 and repeat step two.

[0134] Step 6: After the current sequencing task is completed, determine whether all sequencing tasks are completed: if yes, proceed to step 7; if no, set i = 1 and proceed to steps 2 and 9.

[0135] Step 7: Control the second injection pump 301 to connect with the flow cell 101 through the third three-way valve 302, and drive the reagent in the flow cell 101 into the second injection pump 301.

[0136] Step 8: Control the connection between the second injection pump 301 and the inlet 403 of the switching valve 401 via the third three-way valve 302 to determine whether the reagent meets the reuse conditions: if yes, switch the switching valve 401 to the reuse port 405 corresponding to the reagent, and the second injection pump 301 transfers the reagent to the corresponding reuse storage tank 402 through the switching valve 401; if no, switch the switching valve 401 to the waste liquid port 404, and the second injection pump 301 transfers the reagent to the waste liquid tank 500 through the switching valve 401; proceed to step 9.

[0137] Specifically, reagent reuse conditions can be that the number of times the corresponding reagent participates in a biochemical reaction is less than or equal to a set number; of course, reagent reuse conditions can also be that the nucleotide concentration in the corresponding reagent is not lower than a set threshold.

[0138] Step Nine: Clean the piping system. The method for cleaning the piping system is the same as in Step One, and will not be repeated here.

[0139] In this embodiment, the i-th reagent includes the i-th nucleotide and the i-th polymerase. Each gene sequencing task requires 2-4 biochemical reactions, with different nucleotides and polymerases participating in each reaction. In this embodiment, the process and number of biochemical reactions in each gene sequencing task are comparable to existing technologies and will not be described further.

[0140] The above-described embodiments are merely preferred embodiments provided to fully illustrate the present invention, and the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Equivalent substitutions or modifications made by those skilled in the art based on the present invention are all within the scope of protection of the present invention. The scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A gene sequencing pipetting assembly, characterized in that: Includes a pipetting module and a cleaning assembly; The pipetting module includes a reagent compartment for storing reagents, a reagent needle assembly for drawing or injecting reagents, and a pipetting drive assembly for driving the reagent needle assembly to move; the reagent needle assembly includes a reagent needle and a pipetting pump connected to the reagent needle, and the reagent needle draws reagents from the reagent compartment and injects the reagents into the flow cell assembly under the action of the pipetting pump; The cleaning assembly includes a cleaning tank for storing cleaning solution, an inner wall cleaning unit for cleaning the inner wall of the reagent needle, and an outer wall cleaning unit for cleaning the outer wall of the reagent needle; the outer wall cleaning unit includes a cleaning pool. Above the cleaning tank is a first drying device, which includes a first drying hole for the reagent needle to pass through and a first air pump for drawing air from or supplying air into the first drying hole. The first drying device comprises two relatively movable first drying modules, with the first drying hole for the reagent needle to pass through formed between the two modules. The first drying hole has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the aperture of the first drying hole allows the needle sheath of the reagent needle to pass through. In the second state, the aperture of the first drying hole only allows the tip of the reagent needle to pass through and acts as a barrier to the needle sheath. The pipetting module further includes a dispensing block with a dispensing channel. The dispensing block is used to contact the reagent needle and inject the reagent into the dispensing channel. The cleaning assembly includes a second drying device located above the dispensing block. The second drying device has a second drying hole for the reagent needle to pass through and a second air pump for drawing air from or supplying air into the second drying hole. The second drying device includes two relatively movable second drying modules, forming a second drying hole for the reagent needle to pass through between the two modules. The second drying hole has a third state and a fourth state. In the third state, the aperture of the second drying hole allows the needle sheath of the reagent needle to pass through. In the fourth state, the aperture of the second drying hole only allows the tip of the reagent needle to pass through and blocks the needle sheath. The cleaning assembly also includes a third drying device disposed on the horizontal movement path of the reagent needle.

2. The gene sequencing pipetting assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner wall cleaning unit includes a second three-way valve and a first cleaning pump. The two inlets of the second three-way valve are connected to the pipette pump and the first cleaning pump, respectively, and one outlet of the second three-way valve is connected to the reagent needle. The inlet of the first cleaning pump is connected to the cleaning tank.

3. The gene sequencing pipetting assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first cleaning pump is equipped with a first check valve at its inlet.

4. The gene sequencing pipetting assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The outer wall cleaning unit includes a second cleaning pump. The cleaning liquid inlet is provided on the side wall of the cleaning tank. The outlet of the second cleaning pump is connected to the cleaning liquid inlet, and the inlet of the second cleaning pump is connected to the cleaning tank.

5. The gene sequencing pipetting assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The second cleaning pump is equipped with a second check valve at its inlet.

6. The gene sequencing pipetting assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The bottom of the cleaning tank is provided with a drain outlet, and a third cleaning pump is provided on the drain outlet of the cleaning tank.

7. The gene sequencing pipetting assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The third drying device is provided with a drying channel located on the reagent needle path for the reagent needle to pass through, and a third air pump for drawing air from the drying channel or for sending air into the drying channel.

8. The gene sequencing pipetting assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that: The third air-drying device is located between the liquid adding block and the reagent chamber.

9. A gene sequencing system, characterized in that: Includes the gene sequencing pipetting assembly as described in any one of claims 1-8.

10. A gene sequencing pipetting method, characterized in that: The gene sequencing pipetting assembly as described in any one of claims 1-8 is used, and the method includes the following steps: Step 1: Move the reagent needle directly above the cleaning tank and turn the first drying device on. Step 2: Drive the reagent needle to extend vertically downwards into the cleaning tank; Step 3: Turn on the second cleaning pump and use the outer wall cleaning unit to clean the outer wall of the reagent needle; Switch the second three-way valve to connect the first cleaning pump to the reagent needle, and start the first cleaning pump to clean the inner wall of the reagent needle using the inner wall cleaning unit. Step 4: Drive the reagent needle to move vertically upwards so that the tip of the reagent needle is located inside the first drying device; Step 5: Keep the first drying device in the "off" position, turn on the first air pump to dry the outer wall of the reagent needle tip, and turn off the first air pump after drying. Step Six: Drive the reagent needle to the reagent chamber to draw up the reagent; Step 7: Move the reagent needle above the liquid dispensing block and keep the second drying device in the "off" position; Step 8: Drive the reagent needle downward and position the needle tip inside the second drying device, then turn on the second air pump to dry the outer wall of the needle tip. Step 9: After air drying is completed, control the second air drying device to be in the "on" state, drive the reagent needle to continue moving downward to dock with the liquid adding block, and inject the reagent into the liquid adding channel of the liquid adding block; Step 10: Determine if all pipetting tasks are completed: if yes, end the pipetting process; otherwise, repeat Step 1.

11. The gene sequencing pipetting method according to claim 10, characterized in that: Before the reagent needle draws up the reagent, switch the second three-way valve to connect the pipette pump to the reagent needle.

12. The gene sequencing pipetting method according to claim 10, characterized in that: In step six, as the reagent needle moves toward the corresponding reagent chamber and passes through the drying channel, the third air pump is turned on to dry the outer wall of the reagent needle that has passed through the drying channel.

13. The gene sequencing pipetting method according to claim 10, characterized in that: In step seven, as the reagent needle moves toward the liquid adding block and passes through the drying channel, the third air pump is turned on to dry the outer wall of the reagent needle as it passes through the drying channel.

14. The gene sequencing pipetting method according to claim 10, characterized in that: In step six, after the reagent needle draws up the reagent, the reagent is degassed at least once. Each degassed process is as follows: the reagent in the reagent needle is driven upward by a pipette pump and passes through the degassed module, and then the reagent in the reagent needle is driven downward by a pipette pump and passes through the degassed module again.

15. The gene sequencing pipetting method according to claim 10, characterized in that: Before injecting the reagent from the reagent needle into the liquid addition channel, heat the reagent below the preheating temperature required for the biochemical reaction.

16. The gene sequencing pipetting method according to claim 10, characterized in that: Using a reagent needle to draw the first i The reagent process is as follows: (1) A certain amount of reagent is drawn up by the reagent needle driven by the first injection pump; (2) The reagent needle is driven by the first injection pump to draw in air and form a first air column inside the reagent needle; (3) The reagent needle is driven by the first injection pump to draw up the first reagent. i Reagents; (4) The reagent needle is driven by the first injection pump to draw in air and form a second air column inside the reagent needle.

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