Electrophoresis unit and electrophoresis method

Abstract

An electrophoresis unit for preventing leakage to a flow path caused by electrodes provided at both ends of a capillary tube, the electrophoresis unit being provided with: a capillary tube flow path in which a detection liquid moves from upstream to downstream in a state in which the capillary tube is filled with an electrophoresis liquid; a pair of electrodes provided near both ends of the capillary flow path; a detector provided in a midway portion of the capillary flow path; a first flow path and a second flow path which are respectively communicated with the upstream side and the downstream side of the capillary flow path in the midway part and extend in the direction intersecting with the length direction of the capillary flow path; a first supply source for supplying the detection liquid to the first flow path; a second supply source for supplying the electrophoresis liquid to the second flow path; a pump that moves the detection liquid from the second supply source to the second flow path and moves the detection liquid from the first supply source to the first flow path; a first auxiliary supply source for supplying the insulating fluid to the first flow path; a second auxiliary supply source for supplying the insulating fluid to the second flow path; and a switcher that switches at least fluid flow paths supplied from the first supply source and the second supply source to the first flow path and the second flow path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and a device for filling a capillary with electrophoresis liquid and detection liquid when performing capillary electrophoresis. Background Art

[0002] In a device for performing capillary electrophoresis, various techniques are disclosed regarding methods of filling a capillary with an electrophoresis liquid and a detection liquid. For example, as in the technique described in Patent Document 1, reservoirs for holding liquids are provided at both ends of a separation flow path, and in capillary electrophoresis, a microchip structure is usually provided in which a separation buffer and a sample are respectively supplied to the reservoirs at both ends. In the technique described in Patent Document 1, the amount of liquid flowing in the separation flow path cannot exceed the volume of the reservoir, so in order to fully clean, it is necessary to repeat the process of supplying or sucking liquid to or from the reservoir.

[0003] In the technology described in Patent Document 2, a dispensing probe and a suction nozzle are inserted into reservoirs at both ends of a flow path to continuously discharge and suction liquid, thereby eliminating the need for repeated operations as in Patent Document 1. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-214710 Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-161233 Summary of the invention Problems to be solved by the invention

[0005] By providing flow paths for the detection liquid and electrophoresis liquid to flow respectively upstream and downstream of the capillary without using a reservoir structure, the amount of liquid does not depend on the volume of the reservoir. However, since electrodes are provided at both ends of the capillary, it is necessary to prevent leakage to the flow path. Means for solving problems

[0006] The electrophoresis unit of one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a capillary flow path, in a state where the detection liquid moves from upstream to downstream when the capillary flow path is filled with electrophoresis liquid; a pair of electrodes, arranged near both ends of the capillary flow path; a detector, arranged in the middle of the capillary flow path; a first flow path, connected to the upstream side of the capillary flow path in the middle, and extending in a direction intersecting the length direction of the capillary flow path; a second flow path, connected to the downstream side of the capillary flow path in the middle, and extending in a direction intersecting the length direction of the capillary flow path; a first supply source, supplying the detection liquid to the first flow path; liquid; a second supply source, supplying electrophoretic liquid to the second flow path; a pump, moving the electrophoretic liquid from the second supply source to the second flow path, and moving the detection liquid from the first supply source to the first flow path; a first auxiliary supply source, supplying an insulating fluid to the first flow path, the insulating fluid insulating the detection liquid in contact with the electrode in the first flow path; a second auxiliary supply source, supplying an insulating fluid to the second flow path, the insulating fluid insulating the electrophoretic liquid in contact with the electrode in the second flow path; and a switch, at least switching the supply and stop of the fluids from the first supply source and the second supply source to the first flow path and the second flow path. Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a reservoir structure is not adopted, but flow paths for the detection liquid and the electrophoresis liquid to flow are respectively provided upstream and downstream of the capillary, and electrophoresis is performed in a state where the detection liquid in the upstream flow path and the electrophoresis liquid in the downstream flow path are respectively separated by insulating fluids, thereby preventing leakage of electricity to the flow path caused by the electrodes provided at both ends of the capillary. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1A Schematic diagram showing the electrophoresis unit frame of the first embodiment. Figure 1B It is shown in Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a state in which the electrophoresis liquid is introduced into the second flow path in the electrophoresis unit. Figure 1C It is shown from Figure 1B Schematic diagram of a state where the insulating fluid is introduced into the second flow path. Figure 1D It is shown from Figure 1C Schematic diagram of a state in which the capillary flow channel is filled with the electrophoresis liquid. Figure 1E It is shown from Figure 1D Schematic diagram of a state from which the detection liquid and the insulating fluid are introduced into the first flow path and electrophoresis is performed. Figure 2A Schematic diagram showing an electrophoresis unit frame according to the second embodiment. Figure 2B It is shown in Figure 2ASchematic diagram of a state in which the electrophoresis liquid is introduced into the second flow path in the electrophoresis unit. Figure 2C It is shown from Figure 2B Schematic diagram of a state in which the capillary flow channel is filled with the electrophoresis liquid. Figure 2D It is shown from Figure 2C A schematic diagram of a state from which the detection liquid is introduced into the first flow path to a state in which the detection liquid is introduced into the first flow path. Figure 2E It is shown from Figure 2D Schematic diagram of a state where the insulating fluid is introduced into the first flow path and the second flow path. Figure 2F It is shown from Figure 2E Schematic diagram of a state from which the first channel and the second channel are opened to the external air pressure and electrophoresis is performed. Figure 3A Schematic diagram showing an electrophoresis unit frame according to the third embodiment. Figure 3B It is shown in Figure 3A Schematic diagram of a state in which the electrophoresis liquid is introduced into the second flow path in the electrophoresis unit. Figure 3C It is shown from Figure 3B Schematic diagram of a state where the insulating fluid is introduced into the second flow path. Figure 3D It is shown from Figure 3C Schematic diagram of a state where the cleaning liquid is introduced into the second flow path. Figure 3E It is shown from Figure 3D Schematic diagram of a state in which the capillary flow channel is filled with the electrophoresis liquid. Figure 3F It is shown from Figure 3E A schematic diagram of a state in which the detection liquid, the insulating fluid and the cleaning liquid are sequentially introduced into the first flow path. Figure 3G It is shown from Figure 3F to a state where the insulating fluid is introduced into the first flow path and the second flow path, and the first flow path and the second flow path are opened to the external air pressure and electrophoresis is performed. Figure 4A Schematic diagram showing an electrophoresis unit frame according to a fourth embodiment. Figure 4B It is shown in Figure 4A Schematic diagram of a state in which a pre-cleaning solution is introduced into a second flow channel in an electrophoresis unit of . Figure 4C It is shown from Figure 4B Schematic diagram of a state where the insulating fluid is introduced into the second flow path. Figure 4D It is shown from Figure 4C Schematic diagram of a state from which the electrophoresis liquid is introduced into the second flow channel. Figure 4E It is shown from Figure 4D Schematic diagram of a state where the insulating fluid is introduced into the second flow path again. Figure 4F It is shown from Figure 4E Schematic diagram of a state where the cleaning liquid is introduced into the second flow path. Figure 4G It is shown from Figure 4F Schematic diagram of a state in which the capillary flow channel is filled with the electrophoresis liquid. Figure 4H It is shown from Figure 4G A schematic diagram of a state in which a pre-cleaning liquid, an insulating fluid, a detection liquid, an insulating fluid and a cleaning liquid are sequentially introduced into the first channel, and then the first channel and the second channel are opened to the external air pressure to perform electrophoresis. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Common symbols in the various figures refer to the same parts even if there is no special description. In addition, the various components and parts shown in the various figures are only schematic descriptions and do not accurately present the size and positional relationship of the actual product. In addition, in the various figures mentioned below, the right side of the capillary flow path 11 is regarded as the upstream side and the left side is regarded as the downstream side.

[0010] (1) First Embodiment Reference Figure 1A to Figure 1E , a first embodiment of the present invention is described. Figure 1A Schematic diagram showing the frame of the electrophoresis unit 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 1B to Figure 1E In the present embodiment, a general sequence is schematically shown from the filling of the capillary channel 11 with the electrophoresis solution RS to the introduction of the detection solution SS into the capillary channel by the start of electrophoresis.

[0011] The electrophoresis unit 10 of the embodiment of the present invention comprises: a capillary flow path 11, in a state where the detection liquid SS moves from upstream to downstream when the capillary flow path 11 is filled with electrophoresis liquid RS; a pair of electrodes 13, arranged near both ends of the capillary flow path 11; a detector 12, arranged in the middle of the capillary flow path 11; a first flow path 20, which is connected to the upstream side of the capillary flow path 11 in the middle, intersects with the length direction of the capillary flow path 11, and extends in an arbitrary direction; a second flow path 30, which is connected to the downstream side of the capillary flow path 11 in the middle, intersects with the length direction of the capillary flow path 11, and extends in an arbitrary direction; a first supply source 21, which supplies the detection liquid SS to the first flow path 20; a second supply source 31, which supplies the detection liquid SS to the second flow path 31; The second flow path 30 supplies electrophoresis liquid RS; the pump 40 moves the electrophoresis liquid RS from the second supply source 31 to the second flow path 30, and moves the detection liquid SS from the first supply source 21 to the first flow path 20; the first auxiliary supply source 22 supplies an insulating fluid IF to the first flow path 20, and the insulating fluid IF insulates the detection liquid SS in contact with the electrode 13 within the first flow path 20; the second auxiliary supply source 32 supplies an insulating fluid IF to the second flow path 30, and the insulating fluid IF insulates the electrophoresis liquid RS in contact with the electrode 13 within the second flow path 30; and the switch 50 at least switches the supply and stop of the fluids from the first supply source 21 and the second supply source 31 to the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30.

[0012] The capillary flow path 11 is a thin tube that introduces liquid into the inside by using capillary phenomenon or by pressurization or suction, and is formed of a light-transmitting material such as glass or transparent plastic. In the electrophoresis unit 10, when the electrophoresis liquid RS fills the capillary flow path 11, a voltage is applied via a pair of electrodes 13 disposed near both ends of the capillary flow path 11, so that the detection liquid SS moves in the capillary flow path 11 toward the opposite end. In the present invention, the side where the detection liquid SS is supplied to the capillary flow path 11 is called the upstream, and the side where it moves is called the downstream.

[0013] The electrophoresis solution RS is, for example, various buffers selected according to the purpose of electrophoresis. The test solution SS is a liquid test substance collected from a living body such as blood, plasma, saliva, or urine, and is preferably diluted to an appropriate concentration with an appropriate buffer according to the electrophoresis conditions.

[0014] The detector 12 is a device that optically detects components separated from the moving detection liquid SS in the middle of the capillary channel 11 .

[0015] The first flow path 20 is a flow path for supplying the detection liquid SS from the first supply source 21 to the upstream end of the capillary flow path 11 by the pump 40. The first flow path 20 is intersecting with the longitudinal direction of the capillary flow path 11 and extending in an arbitrary direction (preferably a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the capillary flow path 11), and is connected to the upstream end of the capillary flow path 11 at its middle portion. The first supply source 21 may include, for example, a reservoir or a syringe capable of temporarily holding the detection liquid SS. Excess detection liquid SS is discharged from the end of the first flow path 20 (i.e., the opposite side of the first supply source 21). The pump 40 may be provided on either the supply side or the discharge side of the first flow path 20, or may be provided on both sides. When the pump 40 is provided on the supply side, the pump 40 moves the detection liquid SS to the first flow path 20. When the pump 40 is provided on the discharge side, the pump 40 sucks the detection liquid SS from the first flow path 20. In either case, the detection liquid SS moves from the first supply source 21 to the first flow path 20.

[0016] The second flow path 30 is a flow path for supplying the electrophoretic liquid RS from the second supply source 31 to the downstream end and the interior of the capillary flow path 11 through the pump 40. The second flow path 30 intersects with the length direction of the capillary flow path 11 and extends in any direction (preferably a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the capillary flow path 11), and is connected to the downstream end of the capillary flow path 11 in its middle part. The second supply source 31 may have, for example, a reservoir or a syringe capable of temporarily holding the electrophoretic liquid RS. Excess electrophoretic liquid RS is discharged from the end of the second flow path 30 (i.e., the opposite side of the second supply source 31). The pump 40 may be provided on either the supply side or the discharge side of the second flow path 30, or may be provided on both sides. When the pump 40 is provided on the supply side, the pump 40 moves the electrophoretic liquid RS to the second flow path 30. When the pump 40 is provided on the discharge side, the pump 40 draws the electrophoretic liquid RS from the second flow path 30. In either case, the electrophoretic liquid RS moves from the second supply source 31 to the second flow path 30. In the present embodiment, a pump 40 is provided on the discharge side of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 .

[0017] The insulating fluid IF is an insulating fluid used to prevent the supply side or the discharge side from being electrically conductive via the detection liquid SS and the electrophoresis liquid RS in contact with the electrode 13 in the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30. As the insulating fluid IF, air is most preferred, but it may also be other gases (such as nitrogen, carbon dioxide, etc.) or liquids (such as vegetable oil, mineral oil, etc.) with high insulation. The insulating fluid IF is supplied from the first auxiliary supply source 22 and the second auxiliary supply source 32 to the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30, respectively. The first auxiliary supply source 22 and the second auxiliary supply source 32 may have a vent or a valve open to the outside from the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30, respectively.

[0018] The switch 50 at least switches the supply and stop of the fluid from the first supply source 21 and the second supply source 31 to the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30. In other words, the switch 50 is a structure that is interposed between the first supply source 21 and the second supply source 31 and the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 and can switch the fluid flow path. The switch 50 can have, for example, a rotary valve, a structure combining a plurality of valves, or a structure that moves a nozzle. In addition, as in the present embodiment, the first auxiliary supply source 22 and the second auxiliary supply source 32 can also introduce the insulating fluid IF into the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 respectively via the switch 50. In the present embodiment, the first supply source 21 and the second supply source 31 and the first auxiliary supply source 22 and the second auxiliary supply source 32 are provided on the supply side of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 via the switch 50.

[0019] In addition, as in the present embodiment, fluid detection sensors 80 for detecting the arrival of the fluid may be installed in the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30. In the present embodiment, in the first flow path 20, a first sensor 82 is provided on the supply side and the discharge side with respect to the electrode 13. In addition, in the second flow path 30, a second sensor 83 is provided on the supply side and the discharge side with respect to the electrode 13.

[0020] Below, refer to Figures 1B to 1E , the process from supply of the electrophoresis liquid RS and the detection liquid SS to implementation of electrophoresis in the electrophoresis unit 10 of the present embodiment will be described.

[0021] First, before supplying the electrophoresis liquid RS and the detection liquid SS, the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 are respectively filled with air as the insulating fluid IF. Figure 1B As shown, the switch 50 connects the second supply source 31 to the second flow path 30, and the electrophoretic liquid RS is supplied to the second flow path 30 by suction of the pump 40. Then, when the second sensor 83 on the supply side detects the front end of the electrophoretic liquid RS, the supply of the electrophoretic liquid RS is stopped.

[0022] Then, if Figure 1C As shown, the switch 50 switches the supply source, connects the second auxiliary supply source 32 to the second flow path 30, and the insulating fluid IF is supplied to the second flow path 30 by suction of the pump 40. Then, as shown in FIG. Figure 1DAs shown, when the sensor on the discharge side detects the front end of the electrophoretic liquid RS, the supply of the insulating fluid IF is stopped. In this state, the electrophoretic liquid RS is retained on the downstream side of the capillary flow path 11, and the insulating fluid IF located on the supply side and the discharge side relative to the position of the electrode 13 is in a state of sandwiching the electrophoretic liquid RS. In this state, the electrophoretic liquid RS is introduced into the capillary flow path 11 from the downstream side by capillary phenomenon, pressurization or suction, etc. In the case of utilizing the capillary phenomenon, it is necessary to open both ends of the capillary flow path 11 to atmospheric pressure. On the other hand, in the case of introduction by applying negative pressure or pressurization, it is necessary to generate a pressure difference in the flow path at both ends of the capillary.

[0023] After that, the switch 50 switches the supply source, connects the first supply source 21 to the first flow path 20, and supplies the detection liquid SS to the first flow path 20 by suction of the pump 40. Then, when the first sensor 82 on the supply side detects the front end of the detection liquid SS, the supply of the detection liquid SS is stopped. Next, the switch 50 switches the supply source, connects the first auxiliary supply source 22 to the first flow path 20, and supplies the insulating fluid IF to the first flow path 20 by suction of the pump 40. Then, as shown in FIG. Figure 1E As shown, when the sensor on the discharge side detects the front end of the detection liquid SS, the supply of the insulating fluid IF is stopped. In this state, the detection liquid SS is retained on the upstream side of the capillary flow path 11, and the insulating fluid IF located on the supply side and the discharge side respectively relative to the position of the electrode 13 is in a state of sandwiching the detection liquid SS. In this state, an electroosmotic flow is generated by applying a voltage to the electrodes 13 at both ends of the capillary flow path 11, and the detection liquid SS moves toward the downstream side in the capillary flow path 11, and the components separated by electrophoresis are optically detected by the detector 12. At this time, the electrodes 13 respectively arranged in the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 are sandwiched by the insulating fluid IF on both sides of the supply side and the discharge side, so that leakage from the electrodes 13 to the supply side and the discharge side of the electrophoresis unit 10 can be prevented.

[0024] According to the present embodiment described above, an electrophoresis method using the following structure is implemented: a capillary flow path 11 in which a detection liquid SS moves from upstream to downstream in a state filled with an electrophoresis liquid; a detector 12 disposed in the middle of the capillary flow path 11; a first flow path 20 connected to the upstream side of the capillary flow path 11 in the middle, intersecting with the length direction of the capillary flow path 11 and extending in an arbitrary direction; and a first flow path 20 connected to the downstream side of the capillary flow path 11 in the middle, intersecting with the length direction of the capillary flow path 11 and extending in an arbitrary direction. The second flow path 30 is extended in any direction, and the electrophoresis method includes: introducing the electrophoresis liquid RS into the second flow path 30; introducing the electrophoresis liquid RS from the second flow path 30 into the capillary flow path 11; introducing the detection liquid SS into the first flow path 20; clamping the electrophoresis liquid RS at the position connected to the capillary flow path 11, and introducing the insulating fluid IF into the second flow path 30; clamping the detection liquid SS at the position connected to the capillary flow path 11, and introducing the insulating fluid IF into the first flow path 20; and applying voltage between the upstream and downstream of the capillary flow path 11.

[0025] Before or after the electrophoresis liquid RS is introduced into the second flow channel 30 , the insulating fluid IF is introduced into the second flow channel 30 ; and before or after the detection liquid SS is introduced into the first flow channel 20 , the insulating fluid IF is introduced into the first flow channel 20 .

[0026] In this embodiment, it is not necessary to fill the entire flow path with liquid, so the amount of liquid used for the detection object of electrophoresis measurement can be suppressed to a minimum. Here, the volume of the flow path can be appropriately designed. In this case, the electrophoresis unit 10 can also be designed to introduce other fluids after a known amount of fluid is introduced into the flow path. In this case, the fluid detection sensor 80 as described above is not required.

[0027] In addition, in the present embodiment, the pump 40 is provided as a discharge unit on the discharge side of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30, but the pump 40 may be provided as part of the structure of the switch 50 on the supply side. In addition, the first auxiliary supply source 22 and the second auxiliary supply source 32 may be provided as a single structure, which is shared by the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30.

[0028] (2) Second Embodiment Reference Figure 2A to Figure 2F , a second embodiment of the present invention is described. Figure 2A Schematic diagram showing the frame of the electrophoresis unit 10 according to the second embodiment. Figure 2B to Figure 2F In the present embodiment, a general sequence is schematically shown until the electrophoresis solution RS and the detection solution SS are introduced into the capillary channel 11 and electrophoresis is performed.

[0029] The structures of the capillary channel 11, the detector 12, the first channel 20, and the second channel 30, and the meanings of the detection liquid SS, the electrophoresis liquid RS, and the insulating fluid IF are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0030] In this embodiment, the first supply source 21 and the second supply source 31 are provided on the supply side of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 via the switch 50. Also, the pump 40 is provided on the discharge side of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30, similar to the first embodiment.

[0031] In the electrophoresis unit 10 of the present embodiment, a first valve 22a for opening the first flow path 20 to the atmospheric pressure is provided as the first auxiliary supply source 22, and a second valve 32a for opening the second flow path 30 to the atmospheric pressure is provided as the second auxiliary supply source 32. In the present embodiment, the first valve 22a is provided on the supply side and the discharge side with respect to the electrode 13 in the first flow path 20. In addition, the second valve 32a is provided on the supply side and the discharge side with respect to the electrode 13 in the second flow path 30.

[0032] Below, refer to FIG. 2B to FIG. 2F , the process from supply of the electrophoresis liquid RS and the detection liquid SS to implementation of electrophoresis in the electrophoresis unit 10 of the present embodiment will be described.

[0033] First, if Figure 2B As shown, the switch 50 connects the second supply source 31 to the second flow path 30 to open the flow path, and the electrophoresis liquid RS is supplied to the second flow path 30 by suction of the pump 40. When the second flow path 30 is filled with the electrophoresis liquid RS, the switch 50 closes the flow path to stop the supply of the electrophoresis liquid RS.

[0034] Then, if Figure 2C As shown, the electrophoresis liquid RS is introduced into the capillary flow path 11 from the downstream side by capillary phenomenon, pressurization or suction, etc. In the case of utilizing the capillary phenomenon, both ends of the capillary flow path 11 need to be opened to the atmospheric pressure. On the other hand, in the case of introducing by applying negative pressure or pressurization, it is necessary to generate a pressure difference in the flow path at both ends of the capillary.

[0035] Then, if Figure 2D As shown, the switch 50 connects the first supply source 21 to the first flow path 20 to open the flow path, and the detection liquid SS is supplied to the first flow path 20 by suction of the pump 40. Then, when the first flow path 20 is filled with the detection liquid SS, the switch 50 closes the flow path to stop the supply of the detection liquid SS.

[0036] Then, if Figure 2EAs shown, in the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30, the first valve 22a and the second valve 32a on the discharge side are opened, and the insulating fluid IF (for example, air) is introduced from the outside on the discharge side relative to the electrodes 13 of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30. Here, the supply side of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 becomes a closed space, so the fluid in the capillary flow path 11 does not move. Then, the first valve 22a and the second valve 32a on the discharge side are closed.

[0037] And, if Figure 2F As shown, in the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30, the first supply source 21 and the second supply source 31 are communicated with each other by opening the switch 50, and the first valve 22a and the second valve 32a on the supply side are opened, and the insulating fluid IF (for example, air) is introduced from the outside on the supply side with respect to the electrodes 13 of each of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30. After the insulating fluid IF is introduced, the communication with the first supply source 21 and the second supply source 31 is cut off in the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 by closing the switch 50. In this way, by opening the first valve 22a and the second valve 32a on the supply side in the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30, both ends of the capillary flow path 11 are opened to atmospheric pressure, and the external force generated by the differential pressure with the external atmospheric pressure does not act on the fluid in the capillary flow path 11.

[0038] At this stage, the electrophoresis liquid RS is retained on the downstream side of the capillary flow path 11, and the insulating fluid IF located on the supply side and the discharge side of the electrode 13 is sandwiched by the electrophoresis liquid RS. At the same time, the detection liquid SS is retained on the upstream side of the capillary flow path 11, and the insulating fluid IF located on the supply side and the discharge side relative to the position of the electrode 13 is sandwiched by the detection liquid SS. In this state, an electroosmotic flow is generated by applying a voltage to the electrodes 13 at both ends of the capillary flow path 11, and the detection liquid SS moves toward the downstream side in the capillary flow path 11, and the components separated by electrophoresis are optically detected by the detector 12. At this time, the electrodes 13 respectively arranged in the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 are sandwiched by the insulating fluid IF on both sides of the supply side and the discharge side, so that leakage from the electrodes 13 to the supply side and the discharge side of the electrophoresis unit 10 can be prevented.

[0039] According to the present embodiment described above, an electrophoresis method using the following structure is implemented: a capillary flow path 11 in which the detection liquid SS moves from upstream to downstream; a detector 12 disposed in the middle of the capillary flow path 11; a first flow path 20 connected to the upstream side of the capillary flow path 11 in the middle, intersecting the length direction of the capillary flow path 11 and extending in an arbitrary direction; and a first flow path 20 connected to the downstream side of the capillary flow path 11 in the middle, intersecting the length direction of the capillary flow path 11 and extending in an arbitrary direction. The second flow path 30 is extended and arranged, and the electrophoresis method includes: introducing the electrophoresis liquid RS into the second flow path 30; introducing the electrophoresis liquid RS from the second flow path 30 into the capillary flow path 11; introducing the detection liquid SS into the first flow path 20; clamping the electrophoresis liquid RS at the position connected to the capillary flow path 11, and introducing the insulating fluid IF into the second flow path 30; clamping the detection liquid SS at the position connected to the capillary flow path 11, and introducing the insulating fluid IF into the first flow path 20; and applying voltage between the upstream and downstream of the capillary flow path 11.

[0040] In the above-mentioned electrophoresis method, it is preferred that it also includes: after introducing the electrophoresis liquid RS into the second flow path 30, introducing the insulating fluid IF by clamping the position connected to the capillary flow path 11; and after introducing the detection liquid SS into the first flow path 20, introducing the insulating fluid IF by clamping the position connected to the capillary flow path 11.

[0041] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the pump 40 is provided as the discharge means on the discharge side of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 , but the pump 40 may be provided as a part of the structure of the switch 50 on the supply side.

[0042] (3) Third Embodiment Reference Figure 3A to Figure 3G , a third embodiment of the present invention is described. Figure 3A Schematic diagram showing the frame of the electrophoresis unit 10 according to the third embodiment. Figure 3B to Figure 3G In the present embodiment, a general sequence is schematically shown until the electrophoresis solution RS and the detection solution SS are introduced into the capillary channel 11 and electrophoresis is performed.

[0043] The structures of the capillary channel 11, the detector 12, the first channel 20, and the second channel 30, and the meanings of the detection liquid SS, the electrophoresis liquid RS, and the insulating fluid IF are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0044] In this embodiment, the first supply source 21, the first auxiliary supply source 22, and the cleaning liquid supply source 23 are provided on the supply side of the first flow path 20 via the first switch 52 as the switch 50. In addition, the second supply source 31, the second auxiliary supply source 32, and the cleaning liquid supply source 33 are provided on the supply side of the second flow path 30 via the second switch 53 as the switch 50. The meanings of the first auxiliary supply source 22 and the second auxiliary supply source 32 are the same as those in the first embodiment. The first switch 52 and the second switch 53 are both composed of a rotary valve, a structure combining a plurality of valves, or a structure that moves the nozzle.

[0045] The cleaning liquid CL for cleaning the first flow path 20, the second flow path 30 and the capillary flow path 11 after the electrophoresis is completed is supplied to the first flow path 20 and the second flow path from the cleaning liquid supply sources 23 and 33, respectively. As the cleaning liquid CL, for example, a liquid to which a surfactant is added to an appropriate buffer solution or the like can be used. That is, in the present embodiment, after the detection liquid SS is introduced into the first flow path 20, the cleaning liquid CL is introduced into the first flow path 20 via the switch 50, and after the electrophoresis liquid RS is introduced into the second flow path 30, the cleaning liquid CL is introduced into the second flow path 30 via the switch 50.

[0046] In addition, in the present embodiment, as the first auxiliary supply source 22, a first valve 22a that opens the first flow path 20 to the atmospheric pressure is provided on the discharge side relative to the position of the electrode 13, and as the second auxiliary supply source 32, a second valve 32a that opens the second flow path 30 to the atmospheric pressure is provided on the discharge side relative to the position of the electrode 13. In addition, a pump 40 is provided on the discharge side of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30, which is the same as the first embodiment.

[0047] Below, refer to Figures 3B to 3G , the process from supply of the electrophoresis liquid RS and the detection liquid SS to implementation of electrophoresis in the electrophoresis unit 10 of the present embodiment will be described.

[0048] First, if Figure 3B As shown in FIG. 5 , the second switch 53 connects the second supply source 31 to the second flow path 30, and the electrophoresis liquid RS is supplied to the second flow path 30 by suction of the pump 40. Figure 3C As shown, the second switch 53 switches the supply source and connects the second auxiliary supply source 32 to the second flow path 30 , and the insulating fluid IF is supplied to the second flow path 30 by suction of the pump 40 .

[0049] Then, if Figure 3D As shown, the second switch 53 switches the supply source, connects the cleaning liquid supply source 33 to the second flow path 30, and the cleaning liquid CL is supplied to the second flow path 30 by suction of the pump 40. Then, as shown in FIG. Figure 3EAs shown, the electrophoresis liquid RS is introduced into the capillary flow path 11 from the downstream side by capillary action, pressurization or suction. When utilizing the capillary action, both ends of the capillary flow path 11 need to be opened to the atmospheric pressure. On the other hand, when introducing by applying negative pressure or pressurization, a pressure difference needs to be generated in the flow path at both ends of the capillary.

[0050] From this state, the first switch 52 connects the first supply source 21 to the first flow path 20, and the detection liquid SS is supplied to the first flow path 20 by the suction of the pump 40. Next, the first switch 52 switches the supply source, connects the first auxiliary supply source 22 to the first flow path 20, and the insulating fluid IF is supplied to the first flow path 20 by the suction of the pump 40. Next, the first switch 52 switches the supply source, connects the cleaning liquid supply source 23 to the first flow path 20, and the cleaning liquid CL is supplied to the first flow path 20 by the suction of the pump 40. And, as Figure 3F As shown, the first switch 52 and the second switch 53 are both in a closed state, and the supply side of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 becomes a closed space.

[0051] Then, if Figure 3G As shown, in the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30, the first valve 22a and the second valve 32a on the discharge side are opened, and the insulating fluid IF is introduced from the outside on the discharge side relative to the electrodes 13 of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30. In this way, by opening the first valve 22a and the second valve 32a on the discharge side in the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30, both ends of the capillary flow path 11 are opened to the atmospheric pressure, and the external force generated by the differential pressure with the external atmospheric pressure does not act on the fluid in the capillary flow path 11.

[0052] In this state, an electroosmotic flow is generated by applying a voltage to the electrodes 13 at both ends of the capillary flow path 11, and the detection liquid SS moves to the downstream side in the capillary flow path 11, and the components separated by electrophoresis are optically detected by the detector 12. At this time, the electrodes 13 respectively provided in the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 are sandwiched by the insulating fluid IF on both sides of the supply side and the discharge side, so that leakage from the electrodes 13 to the supply side and the discharge side of the electrophoresis unit 10 can be prevented.

[0053] After the electrophoresis is completed, the pump 40 sucks the first channel 20 and the second channel 30 , thereby cleaning the first channel 20 , the second channel 30 , and the capillary channel 11 with the cleaning liquid CL.

[0054] According to the present embodiment described above, an electrophoresis method using the following structure is implemented: a capillary flow path 11 in which a detection liquid SS moves from upstream to downstream; a detector 12 disposed in the middle of the capillary flow path 11; a first flow path 20 connected to the upstream side of the capillary flow path 11 in the middle, intersecting the length direction of the capillary flow path 11 and extending in an arbitrary direction; and a first flow path 20 connected to the downstream side of the capillary flow path 11 in the middle, intersecting the length direction of the capillary flow path 11 and extending in an arbitrary direction. The second flow path 30 is extended and arranged, and the electrophoresis method includes: introducing the electrophoresis liquid RS into the second flow path 30; introducing the electrophoresis liquid RS from the second flow path 30 into the capillary flow path 11; introducing the detection liquid SS into the first flow path 20; clamping the electrophoresis liquid RS at the position connected to the capillary flow path 11, and introducing the insulating fluid IF into the second flow path 30; clamping the detection liquid SS at the position connected to the capillary flow path 11, and introducing the insulating fluid IF into the first flow path 20; and applying voltage between the upstream and downstream of the capillary flow path 11.

[0055] In the above-mentioned electrophoresis method, it is preferred that it also includes: after introducing the electrophoresis liquid RS into the second flow path 30, introducing the insulating fluid IF into the second flow path 30, and further introducing the insulating fluid IF into the second flow path 30 relative to the insulating fluid IF, at a position connected to the capillary flow path 11; and after introducing the detection liquid SS into the first flow path 20, introducing the insulating fluid IF into the first flow path 20, and further introducing the insulating fluid IF into the first flow path 20 relative to the insulating fluid IF, at a position connected to the capillary flow path 11.

[0056] The electrophoresis method preferably further includes: introducing a cleaning solution CL into the second channel 30 after introducing the electrophoresis solution RS into the second channel 30 ; and introducing a cleaning solution CL into the first channel 20 after introducing the detection solution SS into the first channel 20 .

[0057] In addition, in the present embodiment, the pump 40 is provided as a discharge unit on the discharge side of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30, but the pump 40 may be provided as part of the structure of the switch 50 on the supply side. In addition, the first auxiliary supply source 22 and the second auxiliary supply source 32 may be provided as a single structure, which is shared by the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30. Furthermore, the two cleaning liquid supply sources 23 and 33 may be provided as a single structure, which is shared by the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30.

[0058] (4) Fourth Embodiment Reference Figure 4A to Figure 4H , a fourth embodiment of the present invention is described. Figure 4A Schematic diagram showing the frame of the electrophoresis unit 10 according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 4B to Figure 4HIn the present embodiment, a general sequence is schematically shown until the electrophoresis solution RS and the detection solution SS are introduced into the capillary channel 11 and electrophoresis is performed.

[0059] The structures of the capillary channel 11, the detector 12, the first channel 20, and the second channel 30, and the meanings of the detection liquid SS, the electrophoresis liquid RS, and the insulating fluid IF are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0060] In this embodiment, the first supply source 21, the first auxiliary supply source 22, the cleaning liquid supply source 23, and the pre-cleaning liquid supply source 24 are provided on the supply side of the first flow path 20 via the first switch 52 as the switch 50. In addition, the second supply source 31, the second auxiliary supply source 32, the cleaning liquid supply source 33, and the pre-cleaning liquid supply source 34 are provided on the supply side of the second flow path 30 via the second switch 53 as the switch 50. The meanings of the first auxiliary supply source 22 and the second auxiliary supply source 32 are the same as those of the first embodiment. The first switch 52 and the second switch 53 are both composed of a rotary valve, a structure combining a plurality of valves, or a structure that moves the nozzle.

[0061] A pre-cleaning liquid pCL for cleaning the first channel 20 and the second channel 30 before the start of electrophoresis is supplied from pre-cleaning liquid supply sources 24 and 34 to the first channel 20 and the second channel, respectively. In addition, a cleaning liquid CL for cleaning the first channel 20, the second channel 30 and the capillary channel 11 after the end of electrophoresis is supplied from cleaning liquid supply sources 23 and 33 to the first channel 20 and the second channel, respectively. As the cleaning liquid CL and the pre-cleaning liquid pCL, for example, a liquid to which a surfactant is added in an appropriate buffer solution or the like can be used. That is, in the present embodiment, the pre-cleaning liquid pCL is introduced into the first channel 20 via the switch 50 before the detection liquid SS is introduced into the first channel 20, and the pre-cleaning liquid pCL is introduced into the second channel 30 via the switch 50 before the electrophoresis liquid RS is introduced into the second channel 30. Furthermore, in this embodiment, after the detection liquid SS is introduced into the first channel 20 , the cleaning liquid CL is introduced into the first channel 20 via the switch 50 , and after the electrophoresis liquid RS is introduced into the second channel 30 , the cleaning liquid CL is introduced into the second channel 30 via the switch 50 .

[0062] Below, refer to FIG. 4B to FIG. 4H , the process from supply of the electrophoresis liquid RS and the detection liquid SS to implementation of electrophoresis in the electrophoresis unit 10 of the present embodiment will be described.

[0063] First, if Figure 4B As shown in FIG. 1 , the second switch 53 connects the pre-cleaning liquid supply source 34 to the second flow path 30, and the pre-cleaning liquid pCL is supplied to the second flow path 30 by suction of the pump 40. Figure 4CAs shown, the second switch 53 switches the supply source and connects the second auxiliary supply source 32 to the second flow path 30 , and the insulating fluid IF is supplied to the second flow path 30 by suction of the pump 40 .

[0064] Then, if Figure 4D As shown in FIG. 1 , the second switch 53 switches the supply source. The second switch 53 connects the second supply source 31 to the second flow path 30. The electrophoretic liquid RS is supplied to the second flow path 30 by suction of the pump 40. Figure 4E As shown, the second switch 53 switches the supply source and connects the second auxiliary supply source 32 to the second flow path 30 , and the insulating fluid IF is supplied to the second flow path 30 by suction of the pump 40 .

[0065] Then, if Figure 4F As shown, the second switch 53 switches the supply source, connects the cleaning liquid supply source 33 to the second flow path 30, and the cleaning liquid CL is supplied to the second flow path 30 by suction of the pump 40. Then, as shown in FIG. Figure 4G As shown, the electrophoresis liquid RS is introduced into the capillary flow path 11 from the downstream side by capillary action, pressurization or suction. When utilizing the capillary action, both ends of the capillary flow path 11 need to be opened to the atmospheric pressure. On the other hand, when introducing by applying negative pressure or pressurization, a pressure difference needs to be generated in the flow path at both ends of the capillary.

[0066] From this state, the first switch 52 connects the pre-cleaning liquid supply source 24 to the first flow path 20, and the pre-cleaning liquid pCL is supplied to the first flow path 20 by suction of the pump 40. Next, the first switch 52 switches the supply source, connects the first auxiliary supply source 22 to the first flow path 20, and the insulating fluid IF is supplied to the first flow path 20 by suction of the pump 40. Next, the first switch 52 switches the supply source, connects the first supply source 21 to the first flow path 20, and the detection liquid SS is supplied to the first flow path 20 by suction of the pump 40. Next, the first switch 52 switches the supply source, connects the first auxiliary supply source 22 to the first flow path 20, and the insulating fluid IF is supplied to the first flow path 20 by suction of the pump 40. Then, the first switch 52 switches the supply source, connects the cleaning liquid supply source 23 to the first flow path 20, and the cleaning liquid CL is supplied to the first flow path 20 by suction of the pump 40.

[0067] In this state, if Figure 4H As shown, the first flow path 20 is connected to the first auxiliary supply source 22 by the first switch 52, so that the supply side of the first flow path 20 becomes an open path 55 open to the atmospheric pressure. Figure 4HAs shown, the second flow path 30 is connected to the second auxiliary supply source 32 by the second switch 53, and thus the supply side of the second flow path 30 also becomes an open path 55 opened to the atmospheric pressure. In this way, the supply sides of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 become the open paths 55 and are opened to the atmospheric pressure, and thus, the external force generated by the differential pressure with the external air pressure does not act on the fluid in the capillary flow path 11. That is, in the electrophoresis unit 10 of this embodiment, the switch 50 can be switched to the open paths 55 that open the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 to the atmospheric pressure.

[0068] In this Figure 4H In the state shown, an electroosmotic flow is generated by applying a voltage to the electrodes 13 at both ends of the capillary flow path 11, and the detection liquid SS moves toward the downstream side in the capillary flow path 11, and the components separated by electrophoresis are optically detected by the detector 12. At this time, the electrodes 13 respectively provided in the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30 are sandwiched by the insulating fluid IF on both sides of the supply side and the discharge side, so that leakage from the electrodes 13 to the supply side and the discharge side of the electrophoresis unit 10 can be prevented.

[0069] After the electrophoresis is completed, the pump 40 sucks the first channel 20 and the second channel 30 , thereby cleaning the first channel 20 , the second channel 30 , and the capillary channel 11 with the cleaning liquid CL.

[0070] According to the present embodiment described above, an electrophoresis method using the following structure is implemented: a capillary flow path 11 in which a detection liquid SS moves from upstream to downstream; a detector 12 disposed in the middle of the capillary flow path 11; a first flow path 20 connected to the upstream side of the capillary flow path 11 in the middle, intersecting the length direction of the capillary flow path 11 and extending in an arbitrary direction; and a first flow path 20 connected to the downstream side of the capillary flow path 11 in the middle, intersecting the length direction of the capillary flow path 11 and extending in an arbitrary direction. The second flow path 30 is extended and arranged, and the electrophoresis method includes: introducing the electrophoresis liquid RS into the second flow path 30; introducing the electrophoresis liquid RS from the second flow path 30 into the capillary flow path 11; introducing the detection liquid SS into the first flow path 20; clamping the electrophoresis liquid RS at the position connected to the capillary flow path 11, and introducing the insulating fluid IF into the second flow path 30; clamping the detection liquid SS at the position connected to the capillary flow path 11, and introducing the insulating fluid IF into the first flow path 20; and applying voltage between the upstream and downstream of the capillary flow path 11.

[0071] In the above-mentioned electrophoresis method, it is preferably also included: after introducing the electrophoresis liquid RS into the second flow path 30, introducing the insulating fluid IF into the second flow path 30, and further introducing the insulating fluid IF into the second flow path 30 relative to the insulating fluid IF, at a position connected to the capillary flow path 11; and after introducing the detection liquid SS into the first flow path 20, introducing the insulating fluid IF into the first flow path 20, and further introducing the insulating fluid IF into the first flow path 20 relative to the insulating fluid IF, at a position connected to the capillary flow path 11.

[0072] The electrophoresis method preferably further includes: introducing a cleaning solution CL into the second channel 30 after introducing the electrophoresis solution RS into the second channel 30 ; and introducing a cleaning solution CL into the first channel 20 after introducing the detection solution SS into the first channel 20 .

[0073] The electrophoresis method preferably further includes: introducing a pre-cleaning liquid pCL into the second channel 30 before introducing the electrophoresis liquid RS into the second channel 30; and introducing a pre-cleaning liquid pCL into the first channel 20 before introducing the detection liquid SS into the first channel 20.

[0074] In addition, in the present embodiment, the pump 40 is provided as a discharge unit on the discharge side of the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30, but the pump 40 may be provided as a part of the structure of the switch 50 on the supply side. In addition, the first auxiliary supply source 22 and the second auxiliary supply source 32 may be provided as a single structure, which is shared by the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30. In addition, the two cleaning liquid supply sources 23 and 33 may be provided as a single structure, which is shared by the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30. Furthermore, the two pre-cleaning liquid supply sources 24 and 34 may be provided as a single structure, which is shared by the first flow path 20 and the second flow path 30. Possibility of industrial application

[0075] The technology of the present invention can be used in an electrophoresis unit and an electrophoresis method for performing capillary electrophoresis. Description of Reference Numerals

[0076] 10 electrophoresis unit 11 capillary flow path 12 detector 13 electrode 20 first flow path 21 first supply source 22 first auxiliary supply source 22a first valve 30 second flow path 31 second supply source 32 second auxiliary supply source 32a second valve 40 pump 50 switch 55 open circuit 80 fluid detection sensor CL cleaning solution SS detection solution IF insulating fluid pCL pre-cleaning solution RS electrophoresis solution

Claims

1. An electrophoresis unit, comprising: The capillary flow path is filled with electrophoresis fluid, and the detection fluid moves from upstream to downstream; a pair of electrodes disposed near both ends of the capillary flow path; A detector disposed in the middle of the capillary flow path; a first flow path communicating with the upstream side of the capillary flow path at a midway portion and extending in a direction intersecting with the length direction of the capillary flow path; A second flow path communicates with the downstream side of the capillary flow path at a midway portion and extends in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction; a first supply source for supplying the detection liquid to the first flow path; a second supply source, supplying the electrophoretic liquid to the second flow path; a pump that moves the electrophoresis liquid from the second supply source to the second flow path and moves the detection liquid from the first supply source to the first flow path; a first auxiliary supply source, supplying an insulating fluid to the first flow path, wherein the insulating fluid insulates the detection liquid in contact with the electrode in the first flow path; a second auxiliary supply source, supplying an insulating fluid to the second flow path, wherein the insulating fluid insulates the electrophoretic liquid in contact with the electrode in the second flow path; as well as The switch switches supply and stop of the fluid from at least the first supply source and the second supply source to the first flow path and the second flow path.

2. The electrophoresis unit according to claim 1, wherein: The first auxiliary supply source and the second auxiliary supply source introduce the insulating fluid into the first flow path and the second flow path, respectively, via the switch.

3. The electrophoresis unit according to claim 2, wherein: Fluid detection sensors for detecting arrival of fluid are installed in the first flow path and the second flow path.

4. The electrophoresis unit according to claim 1, wherein: A first valve that opens the first flow path to atmospheric pressure is provided as the first auxiliary supply source, and A second valve that opens the second flow path to atmospheric pressure is provided as the second auxiliary supply source.

5. The electrophoresis unit according to claim 2, wherein: A first valve that opens the first flow path to atmospheric pressure is provided as the first auxiliary supply source, and A second valve that opens the second flow path to atmospheric pressure is provided as the second auxiliary supply source.

6. The electrophoresis unit according to claim 2, wherein: The switch can switch to an open path in which the first flow path and the second flow path are each opened to atmospheric pressure.

7. The electrophoresis unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: After the detection liquid is introduced into the first flow path, a cleaning liquid is introduced into the first flow path via the switch, After the electrophoresis liquid is introduced into the second flow channel, the cleaning liquid is introduced into the second flow channel via the switch.

8. The electrophoresis unit according to claim 7, wherein: Before the detection liquid is introduced into the first flow path, a pre-cleaning liquid is introduced into the first flow path via the switch, Before the electrophoresis liquid is introduced into the second flow channel, a pre-cleaning liquid is introduced into the second flow channel via the switch.

9. An electrophoresis method using: The capillary flow path is filled with electrophoresis fluid, and the detection fluid moves from upstream to downstream; A detector disposed in the middle of the capillary flow path; a first flow path communicating with the upstream side of the capillary flow path at a midway portion and extending in a direction intersecting with the length direction of the capillary flow path; as well as A second flow path communicates with the downstream side of the capillary flow path at a midway portion and extends in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction; Wherein, the electrophoresis method comprises: introducing the electrophoresis liquid into the second flow path; introducing the electrophoresis liquid from the second flow path into the capillary flow path; introducing the detection liquid into the first flow path; The electrophoresis fluid is sandwiched at a position communicating with the capillary flow path, and an insulating fluid is introduced into the second flow path; sandwiching the detection liquid at a position communicating with the capillary flow path, and introducing an insulating fluid into the first flow path; and A voltage is applied between the upstream and downstream of the capillary flow channel.

10. The electrophoresis method according to claim 9, further comprising: Before or after the electrophoretic liquid is introduced into the second flow path, an insulating fluid is introduced into the second flow path; as well as Before or after the detection liquid is introduced into the first flow path, an insulating fluid is introduced into the first flow path.

11. The electrophoresis method according to claim 9, further comprising: After the electrophoresis liquid is introduced into the second flow path, an insulating fluid is introduced into the second flow path sandwiching the position communicating with the capillary flow path, and After the detection liquid is introduced into the first flow channel, an insulating fluid is introduced around a position communicating with the capillary flow channel.

12. The electrophoresis method according to claim 9, further comprising: After the electrophoretic liquid is introduced into the second flow path, an insulating fluid is introduced into the second flow path, and then the insulating fluid is sandwiched at a position connected with the capillary flow path and then introduced into the second flow path; as well as After the detection liquid is introduced into the first flow path, an insulating fluid is introduced into the first flow path, and the insulating fluid is introduced into the first flow path by sandwiching a position communicating with the capillary flow path.

13. The electrophoresis method according to any one of claims 9 to 12, further comprising: After the electrophoresis liquid is introduced into the second flow path, a cleaning liquid is introduced into the second flow path; as well as After the detection liquid is introduced into the first flow channel, a cleaning liquid is introduced into the first flow channel.

14. The electrophoresis method according to claim 13, further comprising: Before introducing the electrophoresis liquid into the second flow path, introducing a pre-cleaning liquid into the second flow path; as well as Before introducing the detection liquid into the first flow channel, a pre-cleaning liquid is introduced into the first flow channel.

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