Display method, analysis device and program

Abstract

To automatically and specifically display a peak of interest and improve a user's work efficiency in an electrophoresis data analysis device.SOLUTION: Provided is a display method for a plurality of pieces of data that is obtained for each of a plurality of samples by electrophoretic separation, the first data including a first peak corresponding to a separated component of a known sample, the second data including a second peak corresponding to a separated component of an unknown sample. The display method comprises: a step for acquiring a plurality of pieces of data; a step for detecting the first peak and the second peak from the first data and the second data, respectively; a step for setting ranges included within a prescribed threshold from the first peak as specific ranges Ar1 to Ar6; a step for determining, regarding the second data, whether the second peak is included in the specific ranges; and a step for specifically displaying the second peak when the second peak is in the specific ranges.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a display method, an analysis device, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, software for analyzing and displaying electrophoresis data displays detected data in the form of an electropherogram, a gel image, a peak list, or the like.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2020-20725 (Patent Document 1) discloses an example of a data analysis device for samples separated by electrophoresis that displays detected data in the form of an electropherogram and a gel image. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-20725 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Such electrophoresis data includes multiple peaks corresponding to multiple components fractionated by electrophoresis. Typically, a user specifies a peak of interest among the multiple peaks and performs analysis on the specified peak. While such a method of specifying a peak of interest has been performed by, for example, a user visually and manually specifying a peak corresponding to a component of interest, further improvements are needed.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to automatically and specifically display peaks of interest in an electrophoresis data analysis device, thereby improving the user's work efficiency. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A first aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for displaying a plurality of data obtained by electrophoretic separation of a plurality of samples. The plurality of samples include known samples and unknown samples. The plurality of data includes first data corresponding to the known samples and second data corresponding to the unknown samples. The first data includes a first peak corresponding to a component of the separated known samples. The second data includes a second peak corresponding to a component of the separated unknown samples. The display method includes the steps of acquiring the plurality of data, detecting the first peak and the second peak from the first data and the second data, respectively, setting a range from the first peak within a predetermined threshold as a specific range, determining whether the second peak is within the specific range for the second data, and specifically displaying the second peak if the second peak is within the specific range. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the display method of the present disclosure, when a peak (second peak) of second data is included in a specific range within a predetermined threshold from a peak (first peak) detected in first data, the second peak is specifically displayed. That is, the peak that the user focuses on is automatically and specifically displayed. This improves the user's work efficiency. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an analysis system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method setting screen. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a detection setting screen. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for setting sample information and an analysis order. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an analysis result screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an electropherogram. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a display process of the analysis device. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a process for setting a detection range. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an analysis result screen according to a modified example. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing a process for post-setting of a control. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference numerals and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0011] [1. Analysis system configuration] 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an analysis system 100. As shown in FIG. 1, the analysis system 100 includes an analysis device 1 and an electrophoresis device 2.

[0012] The electrophoresis apparatus 2 automatically and continuously analyzes multiple samples placed on a plate 21 with wells formed in a matrix. Specifically, for example, a user places a sample on the plate 21. The electrophoresis apparatus 2 introduces the sample from the plate 21 into a fine analysis channel. A fluorescent dye is contained in the analysis channel, and the sample is stained with the fluorescent dye while migrating through the analysis channel. The electrophoresis apparatus 2 applies a voltage to the analysis channel to separate the sample into its components. The electrophoresis apparatus 2 then irradiates the analysis channel with ultraviolet light and detects fluorescence emitted from the separated components. The electrophoresis apparatus 2 acquires separation data indicating the relationship between the signal intensity of the fluorescence and the migration distance through the analysis channel. Note that this migration distance generally correlates with the size (molecular weight) of the sample.

[0013] In this specification, the sample contains DNA or RNA as a component, and the electrophoresis device 2 separates the DNA or RNA according to its size, that is, the number of base pairs (bp: base pair or nt: nucleotide). However, the components of the sample are not limited to the above examples, and may be any component that can be separated by electrophoresis, such as proteins.

[0014] The analysis device 1 acquires separation data obtained by electrophoresis from the electrophoresis device 2 and performs data analysis processing. The separation data corresponds to one example of "data" in the present disclosure.

[0015] The analysis device 1 includes a processor 10, a memory 11, an input unit 12, and a display unit 13.

[0016] The processor 10 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 10 loads a program stored in the memory 11 into a RAM or the like and executes the program.

[0017] The memory 11 includes, for example, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), and a non-volatile memory. The program stored in the ROM is a program that describes the processing procedures of the analysis device 1. The non-volatile memory stores the separation data sent from the electrophoresis device 2 as a data file. Note that the memory 11 may include a hard disk drive instead of or in addition to the non-volatile memory.

[0018] The input unit 12 includes, for example, a keyboard and a mouse. The display unit 13 includes a liquid crystal display. The analysis device 1 generates display data in accordance with a program in which processing procedures are written, and displays the data on the display unit 13. This control is not limited to processing by software, and can also be processed by dedicated hardware (electronic circuits).

[0019] [2. Comparison with conventional analysis systems] Separation data obtained by electrophoretic separation includes peaks corresponding to the separated components. In analyzing separation data, a user typically visually or manually specifies a peak corresponding to a component of interest from among the peaks included in the separation data, and then analyzes the specified peak.

[0020] For example, consider a case where an unknown sample is analyzed to determine whether it contains the same components as a known control sample. In this case, it is determined whether a peak contained in the separation data of the unknown sample (hereinafter also referred to as an "unknown sample peak") matches a peak contained in the separation data of the control (hereinafter also referred to as a "control peak"). In this case, for example, a detection range for the unknown sample peak is set based on the control peak. Then, if the unknown sample peak is included in the detection range, the user detects the unknown sample peak and determines whether the unknown sample contains the same components as the control.

[0021] Specifically, for example, a user first sets a detection range within a predetermined threshold from the control peak and inputs it into the analysis device. The analysis device then determines whether the unknown sample peak is included in the detection range. If the unknown sample peak is included in the detection range, the analysis device detects the unknown sample peak. Therefore, the user can determine whether the unknown sample is identical to the control based on the detected peak.

[0022] However, when the user manually sets the detection range in this way, the following problems can arise. The first problem is that the user must reset the detection range every time the control is changed. The second problem is that if the control separation data contains many peaks, the user must set many detection ranges to correspond to those many peaks. The third problem is that the user must analyze the control separation data, detect the control peaks, and then set a detection range based on the control peaks and reanalyze the separation data of the unknown sample. In other words, the user has to go through the trouble of analyzing the sample twice.

[0023] Therefore, the analysis device 1 according to this embodiment automatically sets the range from the control peak to a predetermined threshold as the detection range. If an unknown sample peak is included in the detection range, the analysis device 1 specifically displays the unknown sample peak. In other words, the analysis device 1 automatically and specifically displays the peak of interest, thereby improving the user's work efficiency.

[0024] [3.Settings screen] Next, with reference to Figures 2 to 4, we will explain the screens on which the user makes various settings to set the detection range from the control peak performed by the analytical device 1 and to specifically display the unknown sample peaks included in the detection range. The screens shown in Figures 2 to 4 are displayed on the display unit 13 by the processor 10. The control peak and the unknown sample peak correspond to examples of the "first peak" and "second peak" in the present disclosure, respectively. Similarly, the separation data of the control and the separation data of the unknown sample correspond to examples of the "first data" and "second data" in the present disclosure, respectively.

[0025] (3-1. Method setting screen) FIG. 2 shows an example of a method setting screen. The method setting screen is a screen for setting a method to be used in an analysis. A method indicates an analysis method that includes at least one of analysis conditions, consumable information, and procedures. The method includes a method table Tb1 and a method setting button Bt1.

[0026] The method table Tb1 presents information about methods. The method table Tb1 includes the following items: "Method name (control used / not used)," "Reagent kit," "Dye," "Mode," "Size standard," "Editor," "Update date and time," and "Other."

[0027] The item "method name (control use / non-use)" indicates the name of the method and whether the method uses a control or does not use a control.

[0028] The item "Reagent Kit" indicates the name of the reagent kit used in the method. The type of reagent kit is determined, for example, by the size (bp) of the components to be separated.

[0029] The "Dye" item indicates the name of the dye used in the method. Dyes are used to stain or color components separated by electrophoresis. If the dye is a fluorescent dye, the signal intensity (mV) of the fluorescence generated by irradiating it with ultraviolet light, for example, is detected.

[0030] The item "mode" indicates the preparation mode of the reagent used in the method. The item "Size Standard" indicates the name of the size standard used in the method. The size standard is a sample that serves as an indicator of the size of the unknown sample to be analyzed and the known control sample. The size standard in this specification corresponds to an example of a "reference sample" used in the present disclosure to define the separated components by the number of base pairs. The separation data of the size standard corresponds to an example of "third data" in the present disclosure.

[0031] The item "editor" indicates the person who edited the method. The item "Updated Date and Time" indicates the updated date and time of the method.

[0032] The item "Other" indicates other items included in the method table Tb1. For example, "Other" may include comments about the method.

[0033] The method setting button Bt1 is a button used for setting a method. Setting a method on the method setting screen is performed, for example, as follows: The user selects a row in the method table Tb1 that contains the desired method by clicking it. Then, the user clicks the method setting button Bt1 to set up the selected method for use.

[0034] When the user selects a method for using the control in FIG. 2, the detection setting screen in FIG. 3 is then displayed.

[0035] (3-2. Detection setting screen) 3 shows an example of a detection setting screen. The detection setting screen is a screen for setting the detection range of unknown sample peaks based on the separation data of the control. The setting of the detection range includes, for example, setting the threshold value of the detection range.

[0036] Specifically, for example, the threshold value is set by multiplying the size (bp) corresponding to the control peak by a predetermined percentage. In this case, the detection range is the range from the control peak to the threshold.

[0037] For example, if the user inputs "10%" as the predetermined percentage, then if the control peak is 100 bp, the threshold will be 10 bp and the detection range will be set to 90-110 bp. On the other hand, if the control peak is 200 bp, the threshold will be 20 bp and the detection range will be 180-220 bp.

[0038] The detection range threshold setting is not limited to the above example; the size (bp) itself may be entered directly. However, the error in peak size in the separation data is considered to be proportional to the peak size. Therefore, a more appropriate detection range can be set by setting the threshold as a percentage of the size, as described above.

[0039] When the user completes the detection settings on the detection settings screen of FIG. 3, or when the user selects a method that uses a control on the method settings screen of FIG. 2, the settings screen shown in FIG. 4 is displayed.

[0040] (3-3. Setting sample information and analysis order) 4 is a diagram showing an example of a sample information and analysis order setting screen. The sample information and analysis order setting screen includes order setting buttons Bt2 and Bt3 and a sample table Tb2.

[0041] The order setting buttons Bt2 and Bt3 are buttons used to set the analysis order. When the order setting button Bt2 is clicked, the order of sample analysis is set horizontally (row direction) on the plate. When the order setting button Bt3 is clicked, the order of sample analysis is set vertically (column direction) on the plate.

[0042] Sample table Tb2 is a table for the user to input sample information. Sample table Tb2 includes the items "Well number," "Sample name," "Type," and "Other." The names of these items are displayed in the cells of the top row of sample table Tb2. Each cell from the second row onwards in sample table Tb2 is configured to allow the user to input a value corresponding to each item using input unit 12. Each cell from the second row onwards in sample table Tb2 may also be configured to allow the user to select a value corresponding to each item from options displayed in each cell.

[0043] The item "Well number" indicates the well number on the plate 21 (see the plate image in Figure 5).

[0044] The "sample name" item indicates the name of the sample. One example of a sample name is the sample ID assigned to the sample when it was collected. Another example of a sample name is an appropriate name that is easy for the user to recognize and manage.

[0045] The "Type" item indicates the type of sample, such as a size standard, a control, or an unknown sample.

[0046] The item "Other" indicates other items included in the sample table Tb2. For example, "Other" may be comments about the sample.

[0047] The sample information and analysis order on the sample information and analysis order setting screen are set, for example, as follows: The user sets the sample analysis order by clicking the order setting button Bt2 or Bt3. Next, the user enters sample information in the sample table Tb2.

[0048] Sample information is input, for example, as follows: First, the user inputs the well numbers to be used for analysis in the horizontal direction relative to the plate, taking into account the analysis order. With this configuration, the electrophoresis apparatus 2 analyzes samples in order from the top of the sample table Tb2. Next, the user determines the samples to be placed in each well. At this time, for each unknown sample, a control is specified to set the detection range for the unknown sample peak.

[0049] Incidentally, specifying a control for setting the detection range of a sample peak in this manner is hereinafter also referred to as "associating an unknown sample with a control."

[0050] In this embodiment, it is assumed that an unknown sample is associated with the most recently analyzed control. That is, if there are one or more unknown samples to be compared with a given control, the one or more unknown samples are entered into sample table Tb2 so that they will be analyzed immediately after the control. That is, information on the one or more unknown samples is entered into sample table Tb2 following information on the control. In other words, information on the one or more unknown samples is entered into one or more rows immediately below the row in which information on the control is entered.

[0051] 4, samples S3 to S8, which are unknown samples, are associated with sample S2, which is a control. Further, samples S10 to S19, which are unknown samples, are associated with sample S9, which is a control. Further, samples S21 to S25, which are unknown samples, are associated with sample S21, which is a control.

[0052] With this configuration, the user can automatically match unknown samples with controls simply by inputting sample information based on the analysis order. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, it is easy to visually compare the control and unknown samples in the analysis results for samples arranged by analysis order.

[0053] However, the association between unknown samples and controls is not limited to this example. For example, the user may set a control sample for each unknown sample.

[0054] 2 to 4 do not have to be reset for each analysis, but may be configured so that the settings used last time are automatically used unless an instruction to change the settings is given. This configuration can improve the efficiency of analyses (routine work) under the same conditions.

[0055] [4. Analysis result screen] (4-1.Analysis result screen) Next, a description will be given of FIG. 5, which shows a screen showing the results of analysis of the separation data by the analysis system 100 after analyzing the sample based on the various settings set as described above.

[0056] 5 is a diagram showing an example of an analysis result screen. The analysis result screen includes windows W1 to W5. Window W1 displays a plate image. Window W2 displays a gel image. Window W3 displays a sample list. Window W4 displays an electropherogram. Window W5 displays a peak table.

[0057] The plate image corresponds to the matrix arrangement of wells formed on the plate 21 in FIG. 1. The plate image is created based on the sample information and analysis sequence settings in FIG. 4. In the plate image, wells containing samples are shown with different visual representations depending on the type of sample (size standard, control, and unknown sample) placed therein. An example of different visual representations is different hatching. Another example of different visual representations is different colors. These different visual representations according to sample type are also commonly used in the gel image and sample list. This allows the user to easily identify the type of each sample in each of the plate image, gel image, and sample list. Furthermore, the user can easily identify the location of a sample of interest in either the plate image, gel image, or sample list in the other two. In other words, the user can easily recognize the correspondence between samples in the plate image, gel image, and sample list.

[0058] In this embodiment, the plate 21 includes wells in rows A to H, columns X1 to X3, and columns 1 to 12. In the example of Figure 5, the size standard is placed in well X1A in row A, column X1. Control and unknown samples are placed in wells in rows A to B, columns 12.

[0059] The sample list lists the samples shown in the plate image in the order of analysis. For each sample, the sample list includes the sample type shown in hatching, the analysis order shown in parentheses, the well number, and the sample name.

[0060] In this embodiment, an electrophoresis apparatus 2 is used that has four analysis channels and is capable of electrophoresis of four samples at a time. In the example of Fig. 5, analysis is first performed on sample S1, which is a size standard, using the four analysis channels, so the same well X1A is shown in analysis orders (1) to (4). Then, from analysis order (5) onwards, sample S2 and onwards are analyzed once each in order.

[0061] The gel image represents the separation data of the sample in a simple manner. In the gel image, the analysis order is shown as (1) to (28), and the positions of the wells are shown below. The gel image is created based on the separation data obtained by the electrophoresis device 2. The vertical axis of the gel image is in units that correlate to the migration time, size, or migration distance. The shade in the gel image correlates to the signal intensity (mV). Therefore, each stripe in the gel image represents a component contained in the sample.

[0062] The electropherograms shown in Figure 5 or the enlarged views of Figure 6 are electropherograms of a control and an unknown sample. The electropherograms are created based on separation data obtained by the electrophoresis apparatus 2. The horizontal axis of the electropherogram is in units correlating with migration time, size, or migration distance. In this embodiment, the horizontal axis of the electropherogram is size (bp). The vertical axis of the electropherogram is signal intensity (mV).

[0063] The size of a component, which is the horizontal axis of an electropherogram, is calculated based on a size standard, for example, as follows: The size standard contains components that exhibit peaks corresponding to multiple predetermined sizes (bp) in the separation data. Therefore, the correlation between the size (bp) of a component and its migration time in the analytical channel can be calculated from the separation data of the size standard. Based on this correlation, the migration times contained in the separation data of the control and unknown samples can be converted into bp.

[0064] The electropherogram shows peaks corresponding to components contained in the sample. The peaks are detected, for example, by the analyzer 1 using as an indicator the change in signal intensity per unit time equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The peaks shown in the electropherogram correspond to the stripes in the gel image.

[0065] In this embodiment, in an electropherogram with a control set, an unknown sample peak is displayed with a different visual appearance when it is within a detection range that is within a predetermined threshold from the control peak, compared to when it is not.

[0066] In the examples of FIGS. 5 and 6, electropherograms are displayed for control sample S2 placed in well A1 in row A, column 1, and unknown sample samples S3 to S8 placed in wells A2 to A7 in row A, columns 2 to 7. Six control peaks, labeled (1) to (6), are detected in the electropherogram of sample S2. Furthermore, for control peaks (1) to (6), detection ranges R1 to R6, which fall within a predetermined threshold from control peaks (1) to (6), are indicated. Detection ranges R1 to R6 are set based on the settings on the detection setting screen of FIG. 3. Of the unknown sample peaks contained in samples S3 to S8, those falling within detection ranges R1 to R6 are marked with markers Mk1 and Mk2. The markers Mk1 and Mk2 indicate that the unknown sample peaks marked with markers Mk1 and Mk2 are included in the detection ranges R1 to R6. In other words, peaks of interest to the user are automatically and specifically displayed. This allows the user to easily recognize the peaks that should be noted, thereby improving the user's work efficiency.

[0067] The different visual representations in the electropherogram are not limited to this example, and the electropherogram may be configured so that only the unknown sample peaks included in the detection range are depicted in a different color. Furthermore, although the symbols (1) to (6) and the detection ranges R1 to R6 are shown in Figures 5 and 6 for the sake of explanation, they do not necessarily have to be displayed on the display unit 13 of the actual analysis device 1.

[0068] Referring again to FIG. 5, the peak table is a table containing values ​​corresponding to peaks. The peak table contains, for example, the items "Size (bp)," "Migration time index," and "Other." The item "Size (bp)" indicates the size (bp) of a peak included in the detection range. The item "Migration time index" is an index of the migration time in the analysis channel and is used to calculate the size (bp). The item "Other" indicates other items included in the peak table. For example, the item "Other" may include the concentration value of the component corresponding to the peak calculated from the signal intensity of the peak included in the detection range.

[0069] In this embodiment, when the control is set, the peak table is configured to display the corresponding value only when the unknown sample peak is included in the detection range. The example in FIG. 5 shows the peak table for S5, which is located in well A4 of row A and column 4. This configuration allows the user to easily identify the peak of interest in the peak table. This improves the user's work efficiency.

[0070] [5. Flow of display processing of analysis device] 7 is a flowchart showing the display process of the analytical device. Referring to FIG. 7, in step (hereinafter also referred to as ST) 02, processor 10 accepts the setting of a method by the user using the method setting screen (FIG. 2).

[0071] In ST04, the processor 10 determines whether the method set in ST02 uses a control.

[0072] If the method uses a control (YES in ST04), in ST06, the processor 10 uses the detection setting screen (FIG. 3) to accept settings for the peak detection range by the user. The settings for the detection range include settings for the threshold of the detection range.

[0073] If the method does not use a control (NO in ST04), or following ST06, in ST08, the processor 10 accepts the user's setting of the analysis order using the sample information and analysis order setting screen (Figure 4).

[0074] In ST10, the processor 10 receives input of sample information by the user using a sample information and analysis sequence setting screen (FIG. 4). The sample information includes the sample type.

[0075] Before the subsequent step ST12, the user places the samples on the plate 21 in consideration of the sample information and the analysis order settings. Then, the user places the plate 21 in the electrophoresis apparatus 2.

[0076] In ST12, the processor 10 receives an instruction to start analysis. The instruction to start analysis is given, for example, by the user clicking an analysis start button (not shown) displayed on the display unit 13.

[0077] In ST14, the processor 10 acquires from the electrophoresis device 2 separation data obtained by electrophoretic separation.

[0078] In ST16, the processor 10 detects peaks contained in the separation data of the size standard, control, and unknown sample.

[0079] In ST18, the processor 10 generates a plate image, a sample list, and a gel image (FIG. 5), and displays them on the display unit 13.

[0080] In ST20, the processor 10 determines whether the method set in ST02 uses a control.

[0081] If the method uses a control (YES in ST20), in ST22, the processor 10 sets the range from the control peak to the predetermined threshold set in ST06 as the detection range. Detailed processing for setting the detection range will be described in FIG. 8.

[0082] In ST24, the processor 10 determines whether the unknown sample peak is within the set detection range.

[0083] In ST26, the processor 10 generates an electropherogram in which markers are added to unknown sample peaks included in the detection range, and displays the electropherogram on the display unit 13. In other words, if an unknown sample peak is included in the detection range in the electropherogram, it is displayed with a marker added.

[0084] In ST28, processor 10 generates a peak table including unknown sample peaks included in the detection range and displays it on display unit 13. In other words, the peak table is configured to include values ​​corresponding to unknown sample peaks only if the unknown sample peaks are included in the detection range. When ST28 is completed, processor 10 ends the process.

[0085] If the method does not use a control (NO in ST20), in ST30, processor 10 generates an electropherogram and displays it on display unit 13. In this case, unlike in ST26, the electropherogram is displayed without including a marker.

[0086] In ST32, a peak table including all unknown sample peaks is generated and displayed on the display unit 13, and the process ends.

[0087] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the process of setting the detection range. In ST222, the processor 10 calculates the bp corresponding to the control peak based on the separation data of the size standard. Specifically, for example, the processor 10 first converts the migration time of the separation data obtained by electrophoresis into the corresponding size (bp). Then, the processor 10 calculates the bp corresponding to the control peak based on the converted separation data.

[0088] In ST224, the processor 10 sets a detection range according to bp. The threshold set as a predetermined percentage in ST06 is converted into a detection range expressed in bp for each control peak.

[0089] As described above, the analytical device 1 according to this embodiment automatically sets the detection range for unknown sample peaks based on the separation data of the control. The analytical device 1 then automatically and specifically displays the unknown sample peaks included in the detection range. This allows the user to easily recognize whether or not an unknown sample peak of the same size as a control peak has been detected. In other words, the analytical device 1 automatically detects and specifically displays the peak of the user's interest, thereby improving the user's work efficiency.

[0090] [6. Modifications] In the above embodiment, the control for setting the detection range of unknown sample peaks is set in the analysis device 1 before the electrophoresis device 2 acquires separation data. However, the analysis device 1 can be configured so that the control can be set even after the separation data is analyzed. In this specification, the setting of the control performed after the separation data is analyzed is also referred to as "post-setting" of the control.

[0091] In this modification, the processing of the analysis device 1 regarding post-setting of controls will be described. (6-1. Post-control setting screen) Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an analysis result screen according to a modified example. Fig. 9 is a screen showing the analysis results of the same sample as the analysis result screen shown in Fig. 5. However, unlike Fig. 5, Fig. 9 shows the results of an analysis performed without pre-setting a control. This state is, for example, a state in which the samples in wells A2, A8, and B7, which should actually be controls, are mistakenly set as unknown samples on the sample information and analysis order setting screen (Fig. 4).

[0092] In this case, the samples in wells A2, A8, and B7 are hatched in the same way as the unknown sample in the plate image, gel image, and sample list. The electropherogram does not include detection ranges R1 to R6 or markers Mk1 and Mk2. The peak table also displays all peaks for unknown sample S5.

[0093] Furthermore, unlike Fig. 5, Fig. 9 includes a window W6. The window W6 is a window for performing post-settings of controls. The window W6 includes a post-setting button Bt4 for performing post-settings.

[0094] The post-setting in window W6 is performed, for example, as follows: The user refers to the other windows W1 to W5 on the analysis result screen to determine whether or not to perform post-setting of controls. If the user determines to perform post-setting, the user can perform the post-setting using the post-setting button Bt4. Specifically, for example, when the user clicks the post-setting button Bt4, the processor 10 displays the sample information and analysis order setting screen (FIG. 4). The user can change the sample information using the sample table Tb2 included in this screen. For example, the user changes the sample type of the samples in wells A2, A8, and B7, which should be controls, from unknown to control. In this state, if the user specifies that this change should be reflected on the analysis result screen, the display contents of windows W1 to W5 on the analysis result screen are changed and displayed. That is, the analysis result screen shown in FIG. 5, in which the samples in wells A2, A8, and B7 are correctly set as controls, is displayed on the display unit 13.

[0095] Note that the state in which the user erroneously sets a control is not limited to the above example, and may also be a state in which, for example, a method that does not use a control is erroneously set. In this case, clicking the post-setting button Bt4 displays, for example, a method setting screen, allowing the user to change the method settings. If the user specifies that the change should be reflected in the analysis result screen, an analysis result screen in which the control is correctly set is displayed on the display unit 13.

[0096] (6-2. Processing flow for post-control setting) 10 is a flowchart showing a process related to the post-setting of a control. Referring to FIG. 10, in ST42, the processor 10 accepts the post-setting of a control by the user using the post-setting button Bt4 (FIG. 9).

[0097] In ST44, the processor 10 accepts a change in the type of sample made by the user using the sample table Tb2 (FIG. 3).

[0098] In ST46, the processor 10 displays the detection setting screen (FIG. 2) on the display unit 13 and accepts the user's settings regarding the detection range. The settings regarding the detection range include, for example, settings of the threshold value of the detection range. However, the settings regarding the detection range used last time may be used as they are.

[0099] In ST48, the processor 10 modifies the plate image, sample list, and gel image and displays them on the display unit 13.

[0100] In ST50, the processor 10 sets the range from the control peak to the predetermined threshold set in ST46 as the detection range.

[0101] In ST52, the processor 10 determines whether the unknown sample peak is within the detection range.

[0102] In ST54, the processor 10 generates an electropherogram in which markers are added to the unknown sample peaks included in the detection range, and displays the electropherogram on the display unit 13. Specifically, for example, the processor 10 modifies the electropherogram already generated by the first analysis by adding the markers.

[0103] In ST56, processor 10 generates a peak table including unknown sample peaks included in the detection range, and displays it on display unit 13. Specifically, for example, processor 10 modifies the peak table already generated by the first analysis to remove peaks not included in the detection range. When ST56 is completed, processor 10 completes the processing.

[0104] As described above, the analytical device 1 according to the modified example can set controls after analyzing the separation data in cases where the user has forgotten to set controls before electrophoretic separation, etc. Therefore, even after analyzing the separation data, the analytical device 1 can automatically and specifically display peaks of interest to the user, improving the user's work efficiency.

[0105] [Aspect] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the exemplary embodiments described above are examples of the following aspects.

[0106] (Item 1) A display method according to one embodiment is a method for displaying a plurality of data obtained by electrophoretic separation for a plurality of samples. The plurality of samples include known samples and unknown samples. The plurality of data includes first data corresponding to the known samples and second data corresponding to the unknown samples. The first data includes a first peak corresponding to a component of the separated known sample. The second data includes a second peak corresponding to a component of the separated unknown sample. The display method includes the steps of acquiring the plurality of data, detecting the first peak and the second peak from the first data and the second data, respectively, setting a range from the first peak within a predetermined threshold as a specific range, determining for the second data whether the second peak is included in the specific range, and specifically displaying the second peak if the second peak is included in the specific range.

[0107] According to the display method described in paragraph 1, when a peak (second peak) of second data is included in a specific range that is within a predetermined threshold from a peak (first peak) detected in the first data, the second peak is specifically displayed. That is, the peak that the user focuses on is automatically and specifically displayed. This improves the user's work efficiency.

[0108] (Item 2) In the display method described in Item 1, the known sample and the unknown sample each contain DNA or RNA. The plurality of samples includes a reference sample for defining the separated components by the number of base pairs. The plurality of data includes third data corresponding to the reference sample. The setting step includes a step of calculating the number of base pairs corresponding to the first peak in the first data based on the third data, and a step of setting a specific range according to the number of base pairs.

[0109] According to the display method described in paragraph 2, in an unknown sample containing DNA or RNA, a specific range according to the number of base pairs is set, and the second peak included in the specific range is specifically displayed, thereby improving the user's work efficiency.

[0110] (Item 3) In the display method according to Items 1 or 2, the step of specifically displaying further includes a step of displaying an electropherogram based on the second data, wherein the step of displaying the electropherogram includes a step of displaying the electropherogram so that it has a different visual appearance when the second peak is included in the specific range compared to when it is not included.

[0111] According to the display method described in paragraph 3, the different visual representations make it easier for the user to focus on the second peak included in the specific range, which is the peak of interest, thereby improving the user's work efficiency.

[0112] (Item 4) In the display method described in item 3, the step of displaying to have a different visual representation includes the step of displaying a second peak included in a specific range in the electropherogram by attaching a marker to it.

[0113] According to the display method described in paragraph 4, the marker allows the user to easily focus on the second peak included in the specific range, which is the peak of interest, thereby improving the user's work efficiency.

[0114] (Item 5) In the display method according to items 3 or 4, the specifically displaying step further includes a step of displaying a peak table based on the second data, wherein the peak table is configured to include a value corresponding to the second peak only if the second peak is included in the specific range.

[0115] According to the display method described in paragraph 5, the user can refer to only the second peaks included in the specific range, which are the peaks of interest, in the peak table, thereby improving the user's work efficiency.

[0116] (Item 6) An analytical device according to another aspect is an analytical device that analyzes a plurality of data obtained by electrophoretic separation for a plurality of samples. The analytical device includes a memory, a processor, and a display unit. The memory stores the plurality of data. The processor executes the display method described in any one of items 1 to 5. The display unit specifically displays a second peak included in a specific range.

[0117] (Item 7) A program according to yet another embodiment is a program that, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to implement the display method according to any one of items 1 to 6.

[0118] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0119] 1 Analysis device, 2 Electrophoresis device, 10 Processor, 11 Memory, 12 Input section, 13 Display section, 21 Plate, 100 Analysis system, X1A, A1 to A12, B1 to B12 Wells, Bt1 Method setting button, Bt2, Bt3 Order setting button, Bt4 Post setting button, Mk1, Mk2 Markers, R1, R6 Detection range, S1 to S28 Samples, Tb1 Method table, Tb2 Sample table, W1 to W6 Windows.

Claims

1. A method for displaying a plurality of data obtained by electrophoretic separation of a plurality of samples, comprising the steps of: the plurality of samples includes known samples and unknown samples; the plurality of data includes first data corresponding to the known samples and second data corresponding to the unknown samples; the first data includes a first peak corresponding to a separated component of the known sample; the second data includes a second peak corresponding to a separated component of the unknown sample; The display method includes: acquiring the plurality of data; detecting the first peak and the second peak from the first data and the second data, respectively; setting a range from the first peak to a predetermined threshold as a specific range; determining whether the second peak is included in the specific range for the second data; and specifically displaying the second peak if the second peak is within the specific range.

2. the known sample and the unknown sample each contain DNA or RNA; The plurality of samples includes a reference sample for defining the separated components by the number of base pairs; the plurality of data includes third data corresponding to the reference sample; The setting step includes a step of calculating the number of base pairs corresponding to the first peak in the first data based on the third data; and setting the specific range according to a number of base pairs.

3. The specifically displaying step further includes displaying an electropherogram based on the second data; The display method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the step of displaying the electropherogram includes a step of displaying the electropherogram so as to have a different visual appearance when the second peak is included in the specific range compared to when the second peak is not included.

4. The display method according to claim 3 , wherein the step of displaying the electropherogram so as to have a different visual expression includes the step of displaying the second peak included in the specific range by attaching a marker to the electropherogram.

5. The step of specifically displaying further includes the step of displaying a peak table based on the second data; The display method according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the peak table is configured to include a value corresponding to the second peak only if the second peak is included in the specific range.

6. An analysis apparatus for analyzing the plurality of data obtained by electrophoretic separation of the plurality of samples, A memory for storing the plurality of data; A processor for executing the display method according to any one of claims 1 to 5; and a display unit that specifically displays the second peak included in the specific range.

7. A program that, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to implement the display method according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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