Electrophoresis unit, component analysis device, and electrophoresis method

Abstract

To provide a technique capable of aligning fluid pressures acting at both ends of a capillary by a simple mechanism.SOLUTION: An electrophoresis unit 20 includes: a first flow path 30 having a first liquid level adjustment section 38 that is open to an exterior to adjust a liquid level of a first liquid reservoir to a predetermined position and equalizes pressure of a liquid surface inside the first liquid reservoir to external pressure; a second flow path 60 having a second liquid level adjustment section 68 that is open to the exterior to adjust a liquid level of a second liquid reservoir to a predetermined position and equalizes pressure of a liquid surface inside the second liquid reservoir to the external pressure; a capillary 24 passing from the first liquid reservoir 32 to the second liquid reservoir 62; and electrodes 28 respectively arranged inside the first flow path 30 and the second flow path 60. Positions H of the first liquid level adjustment section 38 and the second liquid level adjustment section 68 in a vertical direction are equal to each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3A

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electrophoresis unit, a component analysis device, and an electrophoresis method. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a capillary electrophoresis apparatus in which multiple capillaries are arranged on a flat surface at equal intervals parallel to a vertical line, and the sample injection end immersed in the cathode buffer solution faces vertically downward, facilitating connection with the cathode buffer solution and sample solution, and aligning the liquid levels of both buffer solutions to prevent movement of the separation medium within the capillaries.

[0003] Furthermore, for example, Patent Document 2 discloses a microchip electrophoresis device in which the tips of a first suction nozzle and a second suction nozzle are lowered from above the first reservoir and the second reservoir to a predetermined height while performing a suction operation so that the buffer solutions in the first reservoir and the second reservoir are sucked in succession from the surface side, thereby aligning the liquid level in the first reservoir and the liquid level in the second reservoir.

[0004] Furthermore, for example, Patent Document 3 discloses an electrophoretic analysis chip including a first reservoir and a second reservoir provided on a substrate, a migration flow path connecting the first reservoir and the second reservoir and through which a sample migrates, and a liquid level adjustment unit capable of adjusting the liquid level of at least one of the liquid held in the first reservoir and the liquid held in the second reservoir. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2001-124736 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2020-128904 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2016-24021 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In the conventional technology, it is necessary to finely adjust the liquid level at both ends of the capillary using an adjustment mechanism or the like, which requires time for adjustment and results in a complex mechanism and large device size.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a technique that makes it possible to equalize the pressure of liquid applied to both ends of a capillary using a simple mechanism. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] An electrophoresis unit of a first embodiment comprises a first flow path having a first liquid reservoir, a first inflow channel through which liquid flows into the first liquid reservoir, a first outflow channel through which liquid flows out of the first liquid reservoir, and a first liquid level adjustment section opening to the outside, a second flow path having a second liquid reservoir, a second inflow channel through which liquid flows into the second liquid reservoir, a second outflow channel through which liquid flows out of the second liquid reservoir, and a second liquid level adjustment section opening to the outside, a capillary leading from the first liquid reservoir to the second liquid reservoir, and electrodes respectively disposed inside the first flow path and inside the second flow path, and the vertical positions of the first liquid level adjustment section and the second liquid level adjustment section are equal to each other.

[0009] In an electrophoresis unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first and second liquid level adjustment parts that open to the outside are located at the same vertical position, so that the liquid levels stored in the first and second liquid reservoirs are equal. It is possible to align the above. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a component analysis device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 4 is a control flowchart of a control unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining how the liquid levels of the first liquid reservoir and the second liquid reservoir are made uniform according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, and shows how the electrophoretic liquid is flowed into the first liquid reservoir. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a diagram showing the state in which the capillary is filled with the electrophoresis buffer, following FIG. 3A. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3C is a diagram showing the state of flowing the sample solution into the second liquid reservoir, following FIG. 3B. [Figure 3D] FIG. 3C is a diagram showing the state in which the sample solution is discharged from the second outlet channel and the electrophoretic running solution is discharged from the first outlet channel. [Figure 3E] 3D, this is a diagram showing a state in which the liquid levels in the first liquid reservoir and the second liquid reservoir are aligned. [Figure 3F] 3E is a diagram showing how components in a sample solution move through a capillary by electrophoresis. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a component analysis device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] 10 is a control flowchart of a control unit according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating how the liquid levels of a first liquid reservoir and a second liquid reservoir are aligned according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, and shows how the electrophoretic liquid is flowed into the first liquid reservoir. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a diagram showing the state in which the sample solution is flowed into the second liquid reservoir, following FIG. 6A. [Figure 6C] 6B, this is a diagram showing a state in which the liquid levels in the first liquid reservoir and the second liquid reservoir are made uniform. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a component analysis device according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 10 is a control flowchart of a control unit according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9A] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating how the liquid levels of a first liquid reservoir and a second liquid reservoir are aligned according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure, and shows how the electrophoretic liquid is flowed into the first liquid reservoir. [Figure 9B]FIG. 9B is a diagram showing the state in which the sample solution is flowed into the second liquid reservoir, following FIG. 9A. [Figure 9C] 9B, is a diagram showing the state in which the sample solution is discharged from the second opening channel and the electrophoretic running solution is discharged from the first opening channel. [Figure 9D] 9C, this is a diagram showing the state in which the sample solution is discharged from the second inlet channel and the electrophoretic running solution is discharged from the first inlet channel, thereby making the liquid levels in the first and second liquid reservoirs uniform. [Figure 9E] 9D, this is a diagram showing how components in a sample solution move through a capillary by electrophoresis. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a component analysis device according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 10 is a control flowchart of a control unit according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12A] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating how the liquid levels of a first liquid reservoir and a second liquid reservoir are aligned according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure, and shows how the electrophoretic liquid is flowed into the first liquid reservoir. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B is a diagram showing the state in which the sample solution is flowed into the second liquid reservoir, following FIG. 12A. [Figure 12C] 12B, is a diagram showing the state in which the sample solution is discharged from the second opening channel and the electrophoretic running solution is discharged from the first opening channel. [Figure 12D] 12C, this is a diagram showing a state in which the liquid levels in the first liquid reservoir and the second liquid reservoir are made uniform. [Figure 13] 13 is a control flowchart of a control unit according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14A] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating how the liquid levels of a first liquid reservoir and a second liquid reservoir are aligned according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure, and shows how a running liquid is flowed into the first liquid reservoir. [Figure 14B] FIG. 14B is a diagram showing the state in which the sample solution is flowed into the second liquid reservoir, following FIG. 14A. [Figure 14C]14B, is a diagram showing the state in which the sample solution is discharged from the second opening channel and the electrophoretic running solution is discharged from the first opening channel. [Figure 14D] FIG. 14C is a diagram showing a state in which the liquid levels in the second liquid reservoir and the first liquid reservoir are made uniform. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a component analysis device according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] 13 is a control flowchart of a control unit according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17A] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating how the liquid levels of a first liquid reservoir and a second liquid reservoir are aligned according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure, and shows how the electrophoretic liquid is flowed into the first liquid reservoir. [Figure 17B] FIG. 17B is a diagram showing the state in which the sample solution is flowed into the second liquid reservoir, following FIG. 17A. [Figure 17C] 17B, ​​is a diagram showing the state in which the sample solution is discharged from the second opening channel and the electrophoretic running solution is discharged from the first opening channel. [Figure 17D] 17C, this is a diagram showing a state in which the liquid levels in the first liquid reservoir and the second liquid reservoir are made uniform. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or equivalent components and parts are given the same reference symbols. In addition, the dimensional ratios of the drawings are exaggerated for the convenience of explanation and may differ from the actual ratios. In each drawing, when the component analysis device is viewed from the front, the arrow U indicates the upper side, the arrow D indicates the lower side, the arrow R indicates the right side, the arrow L indicates the left side, the arrow B indicates the back side, and the arrow F indicates the front side.

[0012] In the following description, an operator refers to a person who analyzes components contained in a sample solution using a capillary electrophoresis analysis device.

[0013] [First embodiment] A first embodiment of the technology according to the present disclosure will be described with appropriate reference to FIGS. 1 to 3F.

[0014] (composition) Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of a capillary electrophoretic analysis apparatus 10 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 1, the capillary electrophoretic analysis apparatus 10 includes a first supply section 44, a second supply section 74, an electrophoresis unit 20, and a control section 22. The capillary electrophoretic analysis apparatus 10 is an example of a "component analysis apparatus" according to this embodiment.

[0015] The first supply unit 44 is a device that supplies the electrophoretic liquid RS used in the capillary electrophoretic analysis device 10 according to this embodiment to the first inlet channel 34 of the electrophoresis unit 20, and is controlled by the control unit 22 described later. The first supply unit 44 may be any device that can supply the amount of electrophoretic liquid RS desired by an operator, and examples thereof include a pump such as a peristaltic pump and a dropping device such as an electric pipette. In addition, any liquid may be used as the electrophoretic liquid RS, and examples thereof include a buffer solution having a buffering effect on the components contained in the sample solution SS, such as phosphate buffered saline. The first supply unit 44 may be configured in such a way that the supply of the electrophoretic liquid RS is controlled by providing a valve (not shown) between the first supply unit 44 and the first inlet channel 34 described later.

[0016] The second supply unit 74 is a device that supplies the sample solution SS to be analyzed by the capillary electrophoresis analysis device 10 according to this embodiment to the second inlet channel 64 of the electrophoresis unit 20, and is controlled by the control unit 22 described later. That is, the second supply unit 74 may have a configuration similar to that of the first supply unit 44, except for the type of liquid to be supplied. Any liquid may be used for the sample solution SS, and an example of such a liquid is a biological sample containing blood components. The second supply unit 74 may be configured such that the supply of the sample solution SS is controlled by providing a valve (not shown) between the second supply unit 74 and the second inlet channel 64 described later.

[0017] The first supply unit 44 and the second supply unit 74 are examples of the "supply unit" according to this embodiment. The sample solution SS and the electrophoretic running solution RS are examples of the "liquid" according to this embodiment.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 1, the electrophoresis unit 20 includes a first flow path 30, a second flow path 60, a capillary 24, a detector 26, and a pair of electrodes 28.

[0019] 1, the first flow path 30 has a first liquid reservoir 32 and a first outflow path 36 that opens to the outside from a side wall surface of the first liquid reservoir 32. In addition, a first flow path valve 40 is provided on the opposite side of the first outflow path 36 to the first liquid reservoir 32.

[0020] 1, the first liquid reservoir 32 is a recessed portion in the first flow path 30 with a circular bottom surface. The upper side of the first liquid reservoir 32 is a first inflow channel 34 into which the electrophoretic liquid RS flows. One end of a capillary 24, which will be described later, is opened and connected to the bottom side of the first liquid reservoir 32. In this embodiment, the shape of the first liquid reservoir 32 is not limited to a recess with a circular bottom surface, and the bottom surface may be polygonal. Furthermore, the bottom side and the upper side (i.e., the first inflow channel 34) may have different shapes.

[0021] 1, one of a pair of electrodes 28 is disposed in the first liquid reservoir 32. A voltage is applied to the electrode 28 by the control unit 22 in the capillary 24 electrophoretic analysis described below.

[0022] The first outflow channel 36 is a portion that connects the first liquid reservoir 32 with the outside of the electrophoresis unit 20, and is capable of passing liquid from the first liquid reservoir 32 to the outside of the electrophoresis unit 20 by flowing laterally within the vertical range of the first liquid reservoir 32. In other words, the first outflow channel 36 opens horizontally to the outside from the side wall surface of the first liquid reservoir 32 as shown in Fig. 1. A first flow path valve 40 is provided at the end on the outside side of the first outflow channel 36 (the front side in Fig. 1), and is capable of stopping liquid flowing from the first liquid reservoir 32 side through the first outflow channel 36 to the outside.

[0023] The first inflow channel 34 according to this embodiment has an upper side that is open to the outside, as shown in Fig. 1. In other words, in the first liquid reservoir 32 according to this embodiment, the electrophoretic liquid RS can be introduced from above the first flow path 30 using a dropping member such as a pipette.

[0024] The first flow path 30 is an example of a "first flow path" according to the present embodiment. That is, the first liquid reservoir 32, the first inflow path 34, the first outflow path 36, and the first flow path valve 40 according to the present embodiment are examples of a "first liquid reservoir," a "first inflow path," a "first outflow path," and a "valve that stops the flow of liquid," respectively.

[0025] 1, the second flow path 60 has a second liquid reservoir 62 and a second outflow path 66 that opens to the outside from a side wall surface of the second liquid reservoir 62. In addition, a second flow path valve 70 is provided on the opposite side of the second outflow path 66 to the second liquid reservoir 62.

[0026] That is, the second flow path 60 is a portion having the same shape as the first flow path 30 on the opposite side of the first flow path 30 with the capillary 24 sandwiched therebetween. In other words, the second flow path 60, the second liquid reservoir 62, the second inflow path 64, the second outflow path 66, and the second flow path valve 70 are components corresponding to the first flow path 30, the first liquid reservoir 32, the first inflow path 34, the first outflow path 36, and the first flow path valve 40, respectively.

[0027] The second flow path 60 is an example of a "second flow path" according to the present embodiment. That is, the second liquid reservoir 62, the second inflow path 64, the second outflow path 66, and the second flow path valve 70 according to the present embodiment are examples of a "second liquid reservoir," a "second inflow path," a "second outflow path," and a "valve that stops the flow of liquid," respectively.

[0028] 1, the capillary 24 is a tubular part that connects the first liquid reservoir 32 and the second liquid reservoir 62. The capillary 24 is not limited to a specific shape as long as the diameter of the capillary is thin enough to cause the sample solution SS and the electrophoretic solution RS to exhibit a capillary effect, but as an example, the capillary 24 is a circle with a diameter of 25 μm to 100 μm, or a rectangle with sides of 25 μm to 100 μm. The capillary 24 according to this embodiment is made of a transparent material (i.e., light transmittance) such as glass or acrylic.

[0029] The detector 26 is a device controlled by the control unit 22 and detects components contained in the liquid located inside the capillary 24. One example of the detector 26 is an absorptiometer that measures the absorbance of the liquid located inside the capillary 24 by measuring the amount of light emitted from a light source (not shown) and transmitted through the capillary 24.

[0030] In this embodiment, when the sample solution SS flows into the second liquid reservoir 62 and the liquid level LH ​​(vertical position H of the liquid surface in the liquid) is higher upstream than the outflow channels 36, 66, and the second flow path valve 70 is opened, the sample solution SS flows out to the outside until it reaches the vertical position H of the second outflow channel 66. In this embodiment, when the electrophoretic liquid RS flows into the first liquid reservoir 32 and the liquid level LH ​​is higher downstream than the outflow channels 36, 66, and the first flow path valve 40 is opened, the electrophoretic liquid RS flows out to the outside until it reaches the vertical position H of the first outflow channel 36. In other words, the first outflow channel 36 opens to the outside and adjusts the liquid level LH ​​of the electrophoretic liquid RS in the first liquid reservoir 32 to a predetermined position, position H, and makes the pressure of the liquid surface in the first liquid reservoir 32 equal to the external pressure. In addition, the second outflow path 66 opens to the outside to adjust the liquid level LH ​​of the sample solution SS in the second liquid reservoir 62 to a predetermined position H, and also makes the pressure of the liquid surface in the second liquid reservoir 62 equal to the external pressure.

[0031] 1 and 3, in this embodiment, the second outflow channel 66 and the first outflow channel 36 have the same vertical position H. Therefore, when the second flow path valve 70 and the first flow path valve 40 are open, the liquid level LH ​​of the sample solution SS that has flowed into the second liquid reservoir 62 and the liquid level LH ​​of the electrophoretic liquid RS that has flowed into the first liquid reservoir 32 are equal. That is, in this embodiment, the second outflow channel 66 is an example of a "second liquid level adjustment section," and the first outflow channel 36 is an example of a "first liquid level adjustment section."

[0032] The electrophoresis unit 20 in this embodiment may be detachable and replaceable in the capillary electrophoresis analysis apparatus 10, or may be fixedly provided in the capillary electrophoresis analysis apparatus 10. In either case, the first liquid level adjustment unit 38 and the second liquid level adjustment unit 68 are configured to have the same vertical position H when the electrophoresis unit 20 is attached to the capillary electrophoresis analysis apparatus 10.

[0033] In the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between the first flow path 30 and the second flow path 60, they will simply be referred to as flow paths 30, 60. Similarly, when there is no need to distinguish between the components of the first flow path 30 and the components of the second flow path 60, they will be described using the same reference characters: flow paths 30, 60, liquid reservoirs 32, 62, inflow paths 34, 64, outflow paths 36, 66, liquid level adjustment units 38, 68, and flow path valves 40, 70. Similarly, when there is no need to distinguish between the first supply unit 44 and the second supply unit 74, they will be described using the same reference characters: supply unit 44, 74.

[0034] Control unit 22 is a device that controls each component of electrophoresis unit 20, electrode 28, and supply units 44, 74. Control unit 22 may have any configuration, but as an example, it is a device having a CPU, ROM, and RAM, and performs various control operations by having the CPU read and execute programs stored in the ROM.

[0035] More specifically, with the sample solution SS flowing into the second liquid reservoir 62 and the electrophoretic liquid RS flowing into the first liquid reservoir 32 and the capillary 24, the control unit 22 applies a predetermined voltage to the electrode 28, thereby electrophoresing the components in the sample solution SS from the second liquid reservoir 62 to the first liquid reservoir 32. The control unit 22 also uses the detector 26 to perform absorption analysis on the liquid flowing in the capillary 24, thereby measuring the concentration and type of the components in the sample solution SS flowing in the capillary 24.

[0036] In general, in capillary electrophoresis analysis, it is desirable that the liquid levels LH at both ends of the capillary 24, i.e., in the first liquid reservoir 32 and the second liquid reservoir 62, are equal. More specifically, it is desirable that the liquid levels of the electrophoretic solution RS stored in the first liquid reservoir 32 and the sample solution SS stored in the second liquid reservoir 62 are equal before electrophoresis.

[0037] Here, the procedure of the electrophoresis method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2 to Fig. 3F. Note that Fig. 3A to Fig. 3F show the vertical positional relationship of each component in the flow channels 30, 60, the flow channel valves 40, 70, and the capillary 24, and may omit other components.

[0038] (Electrophoresis Method) The control unit 22 according to this embodiment executes a program (not shown) to sequentially execute the procedure shown in FIG.

[0039] First, in step S102, the control unit 22 drives the first supply unit 44 to introduce the electrophoretic liquid RS into the first flow path 30, as shown in Fig. 3A. More specifically, the control unit 22 supplies the electrophoretic liquid RS until the liquid level LH ​​of the electrophoretic liquid RS in the first liquid reservoir 32 becomes higher than the first outflow path 36, as shown in Fig. 3A. The control unit 22 stops driving the first supply unit 44 after the liquid level LH ​​of the electrophoretic liquid RS becomes higher than the first outflow path 36.

[0040] 3B, the control unit 22 fills the capillary 24 with the electrophoretic running liquid RS from the first flow path 30. In this embodiment, the electrophoretic running liquid RS fills the capillary 24 by capillary effect. In other words, the control unit 22 waits until the electrophoretic running liquid RS stored in the first liquid reservoir 32 fills the capillary 24.

[0041] Next, in step S106, the control unit 22 drives the second supply unit 74 to introduce the sample solution SS into the second flow path 60, as shown in Fig. 3C. More specifically, the control unit 22 supplies the sample solution SS until the liquid level LH ​​of the sample solution SS in the second liquid reservoir 62 becomes higher than the second outflow path 66, as shown in Fig. 3C. Note that the control unit 22 stops driving the second supply unit 74 after the liquid level LH ​​of the sample solution SS becomes higher than the second outflow path 66.

[0042] Next, in step S108, the control unit 22 opens the flow path valves 40, 70 provided in the outflow channels 36, 66 as shown in FIG. 3D, and discharges the electrophoretic running solution RS and the sample solution SS from the outflow channels 36, 66, respectively.

[0043] Next, in step S110, the control unit 22 waits until the liquid levels LH of the electrophoretic running liquid RS and the sample solution SS in the flow paths 30, 60 become equal due to gravity, as shown in Fig. 3E. More specifically, the control unit 22 waits until the liquid levels LH of the electrophoretic running liquid RS and the sample solution SS stored in the liquid reservoirs 32, 62 become equal to the vertical position H of the outflow paths 36, 66. The period during which the control unit 22 waits may be determined in advance, or may be determined by the control unit 22 based on the value of the liquid level LH ​​obtained from a liquid level measuring device (not shown) provided in the liquid reservoirs 32, 62. When the viscosity of the electrophoretic running liquid RS or the sample solution SS is high, compressed air may be supplied from the inflow paths 34, 64 to forcibly discharge the electrophoretic running liquid RS or the sample solution SS from the outflow paths 36, 66, instead of waiting until the liquid levels LH become equal due to gravity. In this case, a pressure pump or the like (not shown) is connected to the inflow passages 34, 64.

[0044] Next, in step S112, the control unit 22 applies a voltage to a pair of electrodes 28 arranged in the second flow path 60 and the first flow path 30, as shown in Fig. 3F, to start electrophoresis. The control unit 22 also measures the concentration and type of components contained in the sample solution SS by measuring the components of the fluid moving in the capillary 24 by electroosmotic flow with the detector 26.

[0045] In this embodiment, the liquid level LH ​​at both ends of the capillary 24 is adjusted by the above-mentioned procedure. That is, in this embodiment, step S102 is an example of a "procedure for introducing liquid from a first inlet channel", step S106 is an example of a "procedure for introducing liquid from a second inlet channel", and step S104 is an example of a "procedure for filling the capillary with liquid". Also, in this embodiment, step S110 is an example of an "equal pressure procedure for equalizing the vertical positions of the liquid levels in the liquids stored in the first and second liquid reservoirs", and step S112 is an example of a "procedure for electrophoresing components contained in the liquid inside the capillary".

[0046] Note that, in step S112, it may be optional to measure the concentration and type of components contained in the sample solution SS. In other words, the electrophoresis method described in this embodiment does not necessarily have to include a step of performing component analysis.

[0047] The capillary electrophoretic analysis apparatus 10, the electrophoresis unit 20, and the electrophoresis method according to the present embodiment provide the following actions and effects.

[0048] (Action and Effects) The electrophoresis unit 20 of the present embodiment includes a first flow path 30 having a first liquid level adjustment unit 38 that opens to the outside and equalizes the pressure in the first liquid reservoir 32 with the external pressure, and a second flow path 60 having a second liquid level adjustment unit 68 that opens to the outside and equalizes the pressure in the second liquid reservoir 62 with the external pressure. In the electrophoresis unit 20 of the present embodiment, the vertical positions H of the first liquid level adjustment unit 38 and the second liquid level adjustment unit 68 are equal to each other.

[0049] In the electrophoresis unit 20 according to this embodiment, the vertical positions H of the first liquid level adjustment part 38 and the second liquid level adjustment part 68 that open to the outside are equal to each other, and therefore the liquid levels LH stored in the first liquid reservoir 32 and the second liquid reservoir 62 are equal. As a result, the electrophoresis unit 20 according to this embodiment makes it possible to equalize the pressure of the liquid applied to both ends of the capillary 24 using a simple mechanism.

[0050] Furthermore, in the electrophoresis unit 20 of this embodiment, the outflow channels 36, 66 are directed laterally within the vertical range of the liquid reservoirs 32, 62, thereby functioning as liquid level adjustment units 38, 68. This makes it possible to equalize the liquid levels LH on both sides of the capillary 24 using a simple mechanism, thereby aligning the liquid pressures applied to both ends of the capillary 24.

[0051] Moreover, electrophoresis unit 20 of the present embodiment further includes detector 26 that detects components of the liquid flowing inside capillary 24. Thus, according to electrophoresis unit 20 of the present embodiment, by including detector 26, it is possible to detect components of sample solution SS flowing inside capillary 24.

[0052] Moreover, the capillary electrophoresis analysis apparatus 10 of the present embodiment includes a control unit 22, an electrophoresis unit 20, and supply units 44, 74 that supply a sample solution SS to the electrophoresis unit 20. As a result, according to the capillary electrophoresis analysis apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, the pressure of the liquid applied to both ends of the capillary 24 can be made uniform by a simple mechanism, thereby improving the accuracy of component analysis by capillary electrophoresis.

[0053] The electrophoresis method of this embodiment also includes a step of flowing the running liquid RS from the first inflow channel 34 into the first liquid reservoir 32 of the first flow path 30 having the first liquid level adjustment unit 38 that is open to the outside and equalizes the pressure in the first liquid reservoir 32 to the external pressure and has a vertical position H equal to that of the second liquid level adjustment unit 68. The electrophoresis method of this embodiment also includes a step of flowing the sample solution SS from the second inflow channel 64 into the second liquid reservoir 62 of the second flow path 60 having the second liquid level adjustment unit 68 that is open to the outside and equalizes the pressure in the second liquid reservoir 62 to the external pressure. The electrophoresis method of this embodiment also includes a step of filling the capillary 24 that runs from the first liquid reservoir 32 to the second liquid reservoir 62 with the running liquid RS, and a pressure equalization step of equalizing the vertical positions H of the liquid levels of the liquids stored in the first liquid reservoir 32 and the second liquid reservoir 62 using the first liquid level adjustment unit 38 and the second liquid level adjustment unit 68. The electrophoresis method of this embodiment also includes a step of electrophoresing the components contained in the sample solution SS inside the capillary 24 using electrodes 28 arranged inside the first flow path 30 and the second flow path 60, respectively.

[0054] In the electrophoresis method according to the present embodiment, the first liquid level adjustment unit 38 and the second liquid level adjustment unit 68, which are at the same vertical position H, are opened to the outside, so that the liquid levels LH stored in the first liquid reservoir 32 and the second liquid reservoir 62 are equal. As a result, according to the electrophoresis method according to the present embodiment, it is possible to equalize the pressures applied to the sample solution SS and the electrophoretic solution RS at both ends of the capillary 24 using a simple mechanism, thereby improving the accuracy of electrophoresis of the components contained in the sample solution SS.

[0055] Furthermore, in the procedure for equalizing the vertical positions H of the liquid surface in the liquid in the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, the liquid is caused to flow out of the outflow channels 36, 66, which function as liquid-level adjustment units 38, 68 by moving laterally within the vertical range of the liquid reservoirs 32, 62, to adjust the vertical position H of the liquid surface in the liquid stored in the liquid reservoirs 32, 62. As a result, according to the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, the outflow channels 36, 66, which are the liquid-level adjustment units 38, 68, can equalize the liquid levels LH on both sides of the capillary 24, and the pressure of the liquid applied to both ends of the capillary 24 can be made uniform.

[0056] The electrophoresis method of this embodiment also includes a step of analyzing the components inside the capillary 24 using a detector 26 that detects the components of the liquid flowing through the capillary 24. As a result, according to the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, the pressure of the liquid applied to both ends of the capillary 24 can be made uniform by a simple mechanism, improving the accuracy of component analysis by capillary electrophoresis. In other words, according to the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, even if the amounts of the sample solution SS and the electrophoretic solution RS introduced into the first liquid reservoir 32 and the second liquid reservoir 62 differ, analysis by electrophoresis is possible without requiring precise control.

[0057] Next, a capillary electrophoretic analysis device 110 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 4 to Fig. 6C. Note that, in the capillary electrophoretic analysis device 110 according to the second embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0058] [Second embodiment] (composition) In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the shapes of the inflow channels 134, 164, the outflow channels 136, 166, and the liquid reservoirs 132, 162 are different from those in the first embodiment.

[0059] In this embodiment, the inflow channels 134, 164 are tubular liquid passages extending vertically as shown in Fig. 4. Furthermore, upstream of the inflow channels 134, 164 in the capillary electrophoresis analysis device 110, flow channel valves 140, 170 are provided at the open ends of the flow channels 130, 160. The electrophoretic solution RS or the sample solution SS supplied from the supply units 44, 74 flows into the inflow channels 134, 164 through the flow channel valves 140, 170.

[0060] In this embodiment, the outflow channels 136, 166 extend in the horizontal direction as shown in Fig. 4. In this embodiment, the outflow channels 136, 166 open to the outside of the channels 130, 160 at the side opposite to the liquid reservoirs 132, 162, and the pressure at the open end is equal to the external air pressure outside the channels 130, 160. In other words, the pressure at the downstream opening of the outflow channels 136, 166 is equal to the external air pressure.

[0061] In this embodiment, the reservoirs 132, 162 extend horizontally from the downstream side of the inflow channels 134, 164 to the upstream side of the outflow channels 136, 166, as shown in Fig. 4, and extend upward on the downstream side. In other words, the reservoirs 132, 162 in this embodiment are bottom parts of the flow channels 130, 160 that are substantially U-shaped. The capillary 124 connects the reservoirs 132, 162 to each other.

[0062] In this embodiment, the electrophoretic running liquid RS or the sample solution SS is supplied from the supply unit 44, 74 to the inflow channels 134, 164, passes through the inflow channels 134, 164, the reservoirs 132, 162, and the outflow channels 136, 166 in this order, and flows out to the outside. In this embodiment, when the electrophoretic running liquid RS or the sample solution SS is supplied from the supply unit 44, 74 to the inflow channels 134, 164, all of the inflow channels 134, 164 and the reservoirs 132, 162 are filled with the electrophoretic running liquid RS or the sample solution SS. In this embodiment, the liquid level of the electrophoretic running liquid RS or the sample solution SS may be located midway through the outflow channels 136, 166. In other words, the outflow channels 136, 166 do not have to be filled with the electrophoretic running liquid RS or the sample solution SS.

[0063] In addition, in this embodiment, when the flow path valves 140, 170 are closed, the flow of liquid in the inflow paths 134, 164 is stopped. More specifically, when the flow path valves 140, 170 are closed, outside air does not flow into the inflow paths 134, 164 from the outside, so the flow of liquid in the flow paths 130, 160 is stopped (see also FIG. 6B etc. described later).

[0064] In this embodiment as well, the vertical positions H of the first outflow passage 136 and the second outflow passage 166 are equal as shown in Fig. 6B described later. Therefore, in this embodiment as well, the first outflow passage 136 serves as a first liquid level adjustment section 138, and the second outflow passage 166 serves as a second liquid level adjustment section 168. That is, in this embodiment as well, the first outflow passage 136 is an example of a "first liquid level adjustment section," and the second outflow passage 166 is an example of a "second liquid level adjustment section." Other configurations are similar to those in the first embodiment.

[0065] Next, the procedure of the electrophoresis method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5 to Fig. 6C. Note that Fig. 6C shows the vertical positional relationship of each component of the flow channels 130 and 160, the flow channel valves 140 and 170, and the capillary 124, and may omit other components.

[0066] (Electrophoresis Method) The control unit 22 according to this embodiment executes a program (not shown) to sequentially execute the procedure shown in FIG.

[0067] First, in step S202, as shown in FIG. 6A, the control unit 22 drives the first supply unit 44 to introduce the electrophoretic running liquid RS into the first flow path 130 and fill the first inflow path 134, the first liquid reservoir 132, and the first outflow path 136 with the electrophoretic running liquid RS.

[0068] Next, in step S204, the control unit 22 fills the capillary 124 with the electrophoretic running liquid RS from the first flow path 130. In this embodiment, the electrophoretic running liquid RS fills the capillary 124 by capillary effect. In other words, the control unit 22 waits until the electrophoretic running liquid RS stored in the first liquid reservoir 132 fills the capillary 124.

[0069] Next, the control unit 22 stops driving the first supply unit 44 and closes the first flow path valve 140 in step S206.

[0070] Next, in step S208, the control unit 22 drives the second supply unit 74 as shown in FIG. 6B to introduce the sample solution SS into the second flow path 160 and fill the second inlet path 164, the second liquid reservoir 162 and the second outlet path 166 with the sample solution SS.

[0071] Next, in step S210, as shown in Fig. 6C, the control unit 22 stops driving the second supply unit 74 and closes the second flow path valve 170. In this embodiment, with the flow path valves 140 and 170 closed, the liquid levels LH of the electrophoretic running solution RS and the sample solution SS become equal to each other, as shown in Fig. 6C.

[0072] Next, in step S212, the control unit 22 applies a voltage to a pair of electrodes 28 arranged in the second flow path 160 and the first flow path 130 to start electrophoresis. The control unit 22 also measures the components of the fluid moving through the capillary 124 by electroosmotic flow with the detector 26, thereby measuring the concentrations and types of components contained in the sample solution SS.

[0073] In this embodiment, the liquid level LH ​​at both ends of the capillary 124 is adjusted by the above-mentioned procedure. That is, in this embodiment, step S202 is an example of a "procedure for introducing liquid from a first inlet channel", step S208 is an example of a "procedure for introducing liquid from a second inlet channel", and step S204 is an example of a "procedure for filling the capillary with liquid". Also, in this embodiment, steps S206 and S210 are an example of an "isobaric procedure for equalizing the vertical positions of the liquid levels in the liquids stored in the first and second liquid reservoirs", and step S212 is an example of a "procedure for electrophoresing components contained in the liquid inside the capillary".

[0074] According to the component analysis device and electrophoresis method according to the present embodiment, the following actions and effects can be obtained.

[0075] (Action and Effects) In the electrophoresis unit 120 of this embodiment, flow path valves 140, 170 are provided in the inflow paths 134, 164 to stop the flow of liquid flowing from above into the liquid reservoirs 132, 162. Therefore, by the flow path valves 140, 170 stopping the liquid in the inflow paths 134, 164, the liquid height in the inflow paths 134, 164 does not affect the pressure of the liquid in the liquid reservoirs 132, 162. In other words, since the pressure applied to the liquid in the liquid reservoirs 132, 162 depends on the external pressure and the liquid height in the outflow paths 136, 166, the pressure applied to the liquid in the second liquid reservoir 162 and the pressure applied to the liquid in the first liquid reservoir 132 become equal.

[0076] As a result, in the electrophoresis unit 120 according to this embodiment, it is possible to equalize the liquid pressure applied to both ends of the capillary 124 without discharging the liquid inside the flow channels 130, 160 in the liquid reservoirs 132, 162 from the inflow channels 134, 164.

[0077] In the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, in the isobaric procedure, the flow of liquid inside the inflow channels 134, 164 is stopped using the flow channel valves 140, 170 that stop the flow of liquid flowing from above into the liquid reservoirs 132, 162 in the inflow channels 134, 164. Therefore, stopping the liquid in the inflow channels 134, 164 by the flow channel valves 140, 170 does not affect the pressure of the liquid in the liquid reservoirs 132, 162. In other words, since the pressure applied to the liquid in the liquid reservoirs 132, 162 depends on the external pressure and the liquid height in the outflow channels 136, 166, the pressure applied to the liquid in the second liquid reservoir 162 and the pressure applied to the liquid in the first liquid reservoir 132 become equal.

[0078] As a result, according to the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, it is possible to equalize the liquid pressure applied to both ends of the capillary 124 without discharging the liquid inside the flow channels 130, 160 in the liquid reservoirs 132, 162 from the inflow channels 134, 164.

[0079] In the above description, the flow path valves 140, 170 are provided in the capillary electrophoresis analysis device 110, but this is not limiting, and the electrophoresis unit 120 may have the flow path valves 140, 170. In other words, the flow path valves 140, 170 may be provided in the inflow channels 134, 164.

[0080] In this embodiment, the same functions and effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained with the same configuration as that of the first embodiment.

[0081] Next, a capillary electrophoretic analysis apparatus 210 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 10. Note that, in the capillary electrophoretic analysis apparatus 210 according to the third embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0082] [Third embodiment] (composition) In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the shapes of the inflow channels 234, 264, the outflow channels 236, 266, and the liquid reservoirs 232, 262 are different from those in the first or second embodiment.

[0083] In this embodiment, the inflow channels 234, 264 are tubular liquid passages extending horizontally as shown in Fig. 7. The inflow channels 234, 264 open to the outside of the flow channels 230, 260 at the end opposite to the liquid reservoirs 232, 262, and the pressure at the open end is equal to the external air pressure outside the flow channels 230, 260. In other words, the pressure at the first opening of the outflow channels 236, 266 is equal to the external air pressure. In this embodiment, the vertical position H1 of the inflow channels 234, 264 is lower than the vertical position H2 of the outflow channels 236, 266 (see also Figs. 9A to 9E, etc., described later).

[0084] In this embodiment, a pipe or the like (not shown) is connected to the inflow channels 234, 264 when the electrophoretic running solution RS or the sample solution SS is supplied from the supply units 44, 74. When the supply of the electrophoretic running solution RS or the sample solution SS from the supply units 44, 74 is stopped, the pipe or the like (not shown) is removed from the inflow channels 234, 264, and the inflow channels 234, 264 open to the outside.

[0085] In this embodiment, the outflow channels 236, 266 extend vertically as shown in FIG. 7 and branch horizontally. The parts branching from the outflow channels 236, 266 and extending horizontally are the opening channels 246, 276. That is, the first opening channel 246 is an example of the "first opening channel" in this embodiment, and the second opening channel 276 is an example of the "second opening channel" in this embodiment. In addition, the channel valves 240, 270 are provided on the opposite side of the opening channels 246, 276 to the outflow channels 236, 266 in the capillary electrophoresis analysis device 210. The opposite side of the channel valves 240, 270 to the channels 230, 260 (the capillary electrophoresis analysis device 210 side) opens to the outside, and when the channel valves 240, 270 are open, the pressure at the opening ends of the channels 230, 260 becomes equal to the outside air pressure. In other words, when the flow passage valves 240, 270 are open, the pressure inside the openings 246, 276 is equal to the outside air pressure.

[0086] In this embodiment, the liquid reservoirs 232, 262 extend horizontally from the downstream side of the inflow channels 234, 264 to the upstream side of the outflow channels 236, 266, as shown in Fig. 7, and extend upward on the upstream side. In other words, the liquid reservoirs 232, 262 in this embodiment are bottom parts of the flow channels 230, 260 that are substantially U-shaped. The capillary 224 connects the liquid reservoirs 232, 262 to each other.

[0087] In this embodiment, the electrophoretic running solution RS or the sample solution SS is supplied from the supply units 44, 74 to the inflow channels 234, 264, and flows out through the inflow channels 234, 264, the reservoirs 232, 262, and the outflow channels 236, 266 in this order. In this embodiment, when the electrophoretic running solution RS or the sample solution SS is supplied from the supply units 44, 74 to the inflow channels 234, 264, all of the inflow channels 234, 264, the reservoirs 232, 262, and the outflow channels 236, 266 are filled with the electrophoretic running solution RS or the sample solution SS.

[0088] In this embodiment, when the flow path valves 240, 270 are closed, the flow of liquid in the opening paths 246, 276 is stopped. More specifically, when the flow path valves 240, 270 are closed, the opening paths 246, 276 are not open to the outside, so the flow of liquid in the flow paths 230, 260 is stopped (see also FIG. 9B etc. described later).

[0089] In this embodiment, the vertical lower positions H2 of the first opening passage 246 and the second opening passage 276 are equal as shown in FIG. 9B described later. In this embodiment, the vertical lower positions H1 of the first inflow passage 234 and the second inflow passage 264 are equal as shown in FIG. 9B described later. In this embodiment, the vertical upper positions H2 of the first inflow passage 234 and the second inflow passage 264 are equal to the vertical lower positions H2 of the first opening passage 246 and the second opening passage 276. In this embodiment, the first inflow passage 234 is the first liquid level adjustment section 238, and the second inflow passage 264 is the second liquid level adjustment section 268. That is, in this embodiment, the first inflow passage 234 is an example of the "first liquid level adjustment section", and the second inflow passage 264 is an example of the "second liquid level adjustment section". Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0090] Next, the procedure of the electrophoresis method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8 to Fig. 9E. Note that Fig. 9A to Fig. 9E show the vertical positional relationship of each component in the flow channels 230, 260, the flow channel valves 240, 270, and the capillary 224, and may omit other components.

[0091] (Electrophoresis Method) The control unit 22 according to this embodiment executes a program (not shown) to sequentially execute the procedure shown in FIG.

[0092] First, in step S302, as shown in FIG. 9A, the control unit 22 drives the first supply unit 44 to introduce the electrophoretic liquid RS into the first flow path 230 and fill the first inflow path 234, the first liquid reservoir 232, and the first outflow path 236 with the electrophoretic liquid RS.

[0093] Next, in step S304, the control unit 22 fills the capillary 224 with the electrophoretic running liquid RS from the first flow path 230. In this embodiment, the electrophoretic running liquid RS fills the capillary 224 by capillary effect. In other words, the control unit 22 waits until the electrophoretic running liquid RS stored in the first liquid reservoir 232 fills the capillary 224.

[0094] Next, in step S306, as shown in FIG. 9B, the control unit 22 drives the second supply unit 74 to introduce the sample solution SS into the second flow path 260, and fills the second inflow path 264, the second liquid reservoir 262 and the second outflow path 266 with the sample solution SS.

[0095] Next, in step S308, the control unit 22 stops driving the supply units 44, 74 and opens the flow path valves 240, 270, as shown in FIG. 9C. As a result, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9C, the liquid levels LH of the electrophoretic liquid RS and the sample solution SS are lowered to a position H2 in the vertical direction of the opening paths 246, 276. More specifically, when the viscosity of the electrophoretic liquid RS or the sample solution SS is low, the liquid level LH ​​is lowered to a position H2 on the lower side of the vertical direction of the opening paths 246, 276 by gravity after the flow path valves 240, 270 are opened. Note that, when the viscosity of the electrophoretic liquid RS or the sample solution SS is high, instead of waiting until the liquid levels LH become equal by gravity, compressed air may be supplied from the outflow paths 236, 266 to forcibly discharge the electrophoretic liquid RS or the sample solution SS from the inflow paths 234, 264. In this case, a pressure pump (not shown) or the like is connected to the outflow paths 236, 266.

[0096] Next, in step S310, the control unit 22 removes the tubes (not shown) from the second inflow channel 264 and the first inflow channel 234, as shown in Fig. 9D, to open the inflow channels 234, 264 to the outside. Here, in this embodiment, when the viscosity of the electrophoretic liquid RS or the sample solution SS is high, the liquid level LH ​​is at a position H2 in the vertical direction of the inflow channels 234, 264, as shown in Fig. 9D. In other words, when the viscosity of the electrophoretic liquid RS or the sample solution SS is high, the liquid level LH ​​does not change even if the tubes (not shown) are removed from the second inflow channel 264 and the first inflow channel 234. Note that in this embodiment, when the viscosity of the electrophoretic liquid RS or the sample solution SS is low, the liquid level LH ​​falls to a position H1 on the lower side in the vertical direction of the inflow channels 234, 264 due to gravity.

[0097] That is, in this embodiment, after removing the pipes (not shown) from the first inflow passage 234 and the second inflow passage 264 in step S310, the process waits until it is confirmed that the height of the liquid level LH ​​has stopped changing.

[0098] Next, in step S312, the control unit 22 applies a voltage to a pair of electrodes 28 arranged in the second flow path 260 and the first flow path 230, as shown in Fig. 9E, to start electrophoresis. The control unit 22 also measures the concentration and type of components contained in the sample solution SS by measuring the components of the fluid moving in the capillary 224 by electroosmotic flow with the detector 26.

[0099] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 9E, the lengths from the opening ends to the liquid levels do not have to be the same as long as the vertical positions H1 of the inflow channels 234, 264 are equal and the liquid levels of the electrophoretic solution RS and the sample solution SS are present inside the inflow channels 234, 264. For example, in Fig. 9E, the length EB1 from the opening end to the liquid level in the second flow channel 260 is shorter than the length EB2 from the opening end to the liquid level in the first flow channel 230.

[0100] In this embodiment, the liquid level LH ​​at both ends of the capillary 224 is adjusted by the above-mentioned procedure. That is, in this embodiment, step S302 is an example of a "procedure for introducing liquid from a first inlet channel", step S306 is an example of a "procedure for introducing liquid from a second inlet channel", and step S304 is an example of a "procedure for filling the capillary with liquid". Also, in this embodiment, steps S308 and S310 are an example of an "isobaric procedure for equalizing the vertical positions of the liquid levels in the liquids stored in the first and second liquid reservoirs", and step S312 is an example of a "procedure for electrophoresing components contained in the liquid inside the capillary".

[0101] According to the component analysis device and electrophoresis method according to the present embodiment, the following actions and effects can be obtained.

[0102] (Action and Effects) In electrophoresis unit 220 of this embodiment, inflow channels 234, 264 allow liquid to flow into liquid reservoirs 232, 262 from above, and also open to the outside to function as liquid level adjustment units 238, 268. As a result, electrophoresis unit 220 according to this embodiment makes it possible to equalize liquid levels LH on both sides of capillary 224 using a simple mechanism, thereby aligning the pressure of the liquid applied to both ends of capillary 224.

[0103] Furthermore, according to the electrophoresis unit 220 of this embodiment, even if air is mixed into the electrophoresis solution RS or the sample solution SS flowing into the inflow channels 234, 264, the air is easily discharged from the inflow channels 234, 264 in the pressure equalization procedure. As a result, according to the electrophoresis unit 220 of this embodiment, it is possible to make the liquid level LH ​​uniform regardless of the sealing performance on the upstream side of the inflow channels 234, 264.

[0104] In the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, in the equal pressure procedure, liquid is made to flow into the liquid reservoirs 232, 262 from above, and the liquid is made to flow out from the inflow channels 234, 264 which are open to the outside and function as the liquid level adjustment units 238, 268. As a result, according to the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, it is possible to equalize the liquid levels LH on both sides of the capillary 224 with a simple mechanism, and to equalize the pressure of the liquid applied to both ends of the capillary 224.

[0105] Furthermore, in the electrophoresis method according to this embodiment, in the equal pressure procedure, liquid is discharged from the inflow channels 234, 264. Therefore, even if air is mixed into the electrophoretic solution RS or the sample solution SS flowing into the inflow channels 234, 264, the air is easily discharged from the inflow channels 234, 264. As a result, according to the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, it is possible to make the liquid level LH ​​uniform regardless of the sealing performance on the upstream side of the inflow channels 234, 264.

[0106] In the above description, the flow path valves 240, 270 are provided in the capillary electrophoresis analysis device 210, but this is not limiting, and the electrophoresis unit 220 may have the flow path valves 240, 270. In other words, the flow path valves 240, 270 may be provided in the openings 246, 276.

[0107] In this embodiment, too, if the configuration is similar to that of the first or second embodiment, the same actions and effects as those of the first or second embodiment can be obtained.

[0108] Next, a capillary electrophoretic analysis apparatus 310 according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 10 to Fig. 12D. Note that, in the capillary electrophoretic analysis apparatus 310 according to the fourth embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0109] [Fourth embodiment] (composition) In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the shapes of inflow channels 334, 364, outflow channels 336, 366, and liquid reservoirs 332, 362 are different from those in the first or second embodiment.

[0110] In this embodiment, the inflow channels 334, 364 are tubular liquid passages extending vertically as shown in Fig. 10. The inflow channels 334, 364 open to the outside of the flow channels 330, 360 at the end opposite to the liquid reservoirs 332, 362, and the pressure at the open end is equal to the external air pressure outside the flow channels 330, 360.

[0111] In this embodiment, the outflow channels 336, 366 have the same shape as the outflow channels 236, 266 according to the third embodiment. That is, in this embodiment, the outflow channels 336, 366 extend vertically and branch horizontally as shown in FIG. 10. In addition, the channel valves 340, 370 are provided on the opposite side of the opening channels 346, 376 in the capillary electrophoresis analyzer 310 from the outflow channels 336, 366. The opposite side of the channel valves 340, 370 from the channels 330, 360 (the capillary electrophoresis analyzer 310 side) opens to the outside, and when the channel valves 340, 370 are open, the pressure at the open ends of the channels 330, 360 is equal to the outside air pressure. In other words, when the channel valves 340, 370 of the opening channels 346, 376 are open, the pressure inside the opening channels 346, 376 is equal to the outside air pressure.

[0112] In this embodiment, the reservoirs 332, 362 extend horizontally from the downstream side of the inflow channels 334, 364 to the upstream side of the outflow channels 336, 366, as shown in Fig. 10, and extend upward on the upstream and downstream sides. In other words, the reservoirs 332, 362 in this embodiment are bottom parts of the flow channels 330, 360 that are substantially U-shaped. The capillary 324 connects the reservoirs 332, 362 to each other.

[0113] In this embodiment, the electrophoretic running liquid RS or the sample solution SS is supplied from the supply unit 44, 74 to the inflow channels 334, 364, passes through the inflow channels 334, 364, the reservoirs 332, 362, and the outflow channels 336, 366 in this order, and flows out to the outside. In this embodiment, when the electrophoretic running liquid RS or the sample solution SS is supplied from the supply unit 44, 74 to the inflow channels 334, 364, all of the inflow channels 334, 364, the reservoirs 332, 362, and the outflow channels 336, 366 are filled with the electrophoretic running liquid RS or the sample solution SS. In this embodiment, the liquid level of the electrophoretic running liquid RS or the sample solution SS may be located midway through the outflow channels 336, 366, as long as it is located vertically above the opening channels 346, 376. In other words, the outlet channels 336, 366 do not have to be filled with the running solution RS or the sample solution SS.

[0114] In this embodiment, when the flow path valves 340, 370 are closed, the flow of liquid in the opening paths 346, 376 is stopped. More specifically, when the flow path valves 340, 370 are closed, the opening paths 346, 376 are not open to the outside, so the flow of liquid inside the opening paths 346, 376 is stopped (see also FIG. 12B etc. described later).

[0115] In this embodiment, the vertical positions H of the first opening path 346 and the second opening path 376 are equal as shown in Fig. 12B described later. In this embodiment, the first opening path 346 serves as the first liquid level adjustment section 338, and the second opening path 376 serves as the second liquid level adjustment section 368. That is, in this embodiment, the first opening path 346 is an example of the "first liquid level adjustment section," and the second opening path 376 is an example of the "second liquid level adjustment section." Other configurations are similar to those of the first embodiment.

[0116] Next, the procedure of the electrophoresis method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 11 to Fig. 12D. Note that Fig. 12A to Fig. 12D show the vertical positional relationship of each component in the flow channels 330, 360, the flow channel valves 340, 370, and the capillary 324, and may omit other components.

[0117] (Electrophoresis Method) The control unit 22 according to this embodiment executes a program (not shown) to sequentially execute the procedure shown in FIG.

[0118] First, in step S402, the control unit 22 drives the first supply unit 44 as shown in FIG. 12A to introduce the electrophoretic running liquid RS into the first flow path 330 and fill the first inflow path 334, the first liquid reservoir 332, and the first outflow path 336 with the electrophoretic running liquid RS.

[0119] Next, in step S404, the control unit 22 fills the capillary 324 with the electrophoretic running liquid RS from the first flow path 330. In this embodiment, the electrophoretic running liquid RS fills the capillary 324 by capillary effect. In other words, the control unit 22 waits until the electrophoretic running liquid RS stored in the first liquid reservoir 332 fills the capillary 324.

[0120] Next, in step S406, the control unit 22 drives the second supply unit 74 as shown in FIG. 12B to introduce the sample solution SS into the second flow path 360, and fill the second inflow path 364, the second liquid reservoir 362 and the second outflow path 366 with the sample solution SS.

[0121] Next, in step S408, the control unit 22 stops driving the supply units 44, 74 and opens the flow path valves 340, 370, as shown in Fig. 12C. This causes the liquid levels LH of the electrophoretic running solution RS and the sample solution SS to drop, as shown in Fig. 12C.

[0122] Next, in step S410, the control unit 22 waits until the liquid levels LH of the electrophoretic running solution RS and the sample solution SS inside the flow paths 330, 360 become equal due to gravity, as shown in Fig. 12D. More specifically, the control unit 22 waits until the liquid levels LH of the electrophoretic running solution RS and the sample solution SS stored in the liquid reservoirs 332, 362 become equal to the vertical positions H of the open paths 346, 376.

[0123] Next, in step S412, the control unit 22 applies a voltage to a pair of electrodes 28 arranged in the first flow path 330 and the second flow path 360 to start electrophoresis. The control unit 22 also measures the concentration and type of components contained in the sample solution SS by measuring the components of the fluid moving through the capillary 324 by electroosmotic flow with the detector 26.

[0124] In this embodiment, the liquid level LH ​​at both ends of the capillary 324 is adjusted by the above-mentioned procedure. That is, in this embodiment, step S402 is an example of a "procedure for introducing liquid from the first inlet channel", step S406 is an example of a "procedure for introducing liquid from the second inlet channel", and step S404 is an example of a "procedure for filling the capillary with liquid". Also, in this embodiment, steps S408 and S410 are an example of an "isobaric procedure for equalizing the vertical positions of the liquid levels in the liquids stored in the first and second liquid reservoirs", and step S412 is an example of a "procedure for electrophoresing the components contained in the liquid inside the capillary".

[0125] According to the component analysis device and electrophoresis method according to the present embodiment, the following actions and effects can be obtained.

[0126] (Action and Effects) In the electrophoresis unit 320 of this embodiment, the opening channels 346, 376 branching off from the outflow channels 336, 366 are open to the outside, and function as liquid level adjustment units 338, 368. As a result, in the electrophoresis unit 320 according to this embodiment, the liquid to be flowed in the flow channels 330, 360 can flow out from the outflow channels 336, 366 or the opening channels 346, 376.

[0127] Furthermore, in the electrophoresis unit 320 of this embodiment, the openings 346, 376 are provided with flow path valves 340, 370 that stop the flow of liquid flowing out from above the liquid reservoirs 332, 362. As a result, in the electrophoresis unit 320 of this embodiment, when liquid is flowed from the inflow paths 334, 364 to the outflow paths 336, 366, it is possible to prevent the liquid from unintentionally flowing out from the openings 346, 376.

[0128] In the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, in the isobaric procedure, the liquid is caused to flow out of the opening channels 346, 376 which branch off from the outflow channels 336, 366 through which the liquid flows out of the liquid reservoirs 332, 362 and open to the outside, thereby functioning as the liquid level adjustment sections 338, 368. As a result, according to the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, the liquid to be flowed in the channels 330, 360 can be caused to flow out of the outflow channels 336, 366 or the opening channels 346, 376.

[0129] Furthermore, in the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, in the isobaric procedure, the liquid inside the opening channels 346, 376 is stopped using a valve that stops the flow of liquid flowing out from above the liquid reservoirs 332, 362 in the opening channels 346, 376. As a result, according to the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, when liquid is flowed from the inflow channels 334, 364 to the outflow channels 336, 366, it is possible to prevent the liquid from unintentionally flowing out of the opening channels 346, 376.

[0130] In the above description, the flow path valves 340, 370 are provided in the capillary electrophoresis analysis device 310, but this is not limiting, and the electrophoresis unit 320 may have the flow path valves 340, 370. In other words, the flow path valves 340, 370 may be provided in the openings 346, 376.

[0131] In this embodiment as well, configurations similar to those of the first to third embodiments can provide the same actions and effects as those of the first to third embodiments.

[0132] Next, a capillary electrophoretic analysis apparatus 410 according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 13 to Fig. 14D. Note that, in the capillary electrophoretic analysis apparatus 410 according to the fifth embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0133] [Fifth embodiment] (composition) In this embodiment, the inflow channels 434, 464 are tubular liquid passages extending vertically as shown in Fig. 14A to Fig. 14D, similarly to the fourth embodiment. In addition, flow path valves 440, 470 are provided upstream of the inflow channels 434, 464 in the capillary electrophoresis analyzer 410. The electrophoretic solution RS or the sample solution SS supplied from the supply units 44, 74 flows into the inflow channels 434, 464 through the flow path valves 440, 470. In other words, in this embodiment, the flow path valves 440, 470 are provided upstream of the inflow channels 434, 464 and at the open ends of the open channels 446, 476, respectively. In addition, the capillary 424 connects the liquid reservoirs 432, 462 to each other.

[0134] In this embodiment, the outflow channels 436, 466 are connected to a pressurizing pump via a switching valve such as a three-way valve (not shown) externally, and compressed air can be supplied from the downstream side (upper side in Figs. 14A to 14D) of the outflow channels 436, 466. In other words, the flow channels 430, 460 in this embodiment are pressurized by supplying compressed air from the downstream side of the outflow channels 436, 466.

[0135] In this embodiment, the running solution RS and the sample solution SS have a higher viscosity than those of the running solution RS and the sample solution SS according to the fourth embodiment. Therefore, in this embodiment, the liquid level LH ​​is unlikely to decrease simply by opening the flow path valves 440, 470 of the opening paths 446, 476 as in step S408 in the fourth embodiment.

[0136] Other configurations are the same as those of the fourth embodiment. That is, in this embodiment, the first opening path 446 is an example of a "first liquid level adjustment part," and the second opening path 476 is an example of a "second liquid level adjustment part."

[0137] Next, the procedure of the electrophoresis method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 13 to Fig. 14D. Note that Fig. 14A to Fig. 14D show the vertical positional relationship of each component in the flow channels 430, 460, the flow channel valves 440, 470, and the capillary 424, and may omit other components.

[0138] (Electrophoresis Method) The control unit 22 according to this embodiment executes a program (not shown) to sequentially execute the procedure shown in FIG.

[0139] 14A, the control unit 22 drives the first supply unit 44 to introduce the electrophoretic liquid RS into the first flow path 430 and fill the first inflow path 434, the first liquid reservoir 432, and the first outflow path 436 with the electrophoretic liquid RS. In this embodiment, the liquid level of the electrophoretic liquid RS may be located midway through the first outflow path 436, so long as the liquid level is located vertically above the first opening path 446. In other words, the first outflow path 436 does not need to be filled with the electrophoretic liquid RS.

[0140] Next, in step S504, the control unit 22 fills the capillary 424 with the electrophoretic running liquid RS from the first flow path 430. In this embodiment, the electrophoretic running liquid RS is pressurized by supplying compressed air from the downstream side of the first outlet path 436, thereby filling the capillary 424.

[0141] 14B, the control unit 22 drives the second supply unit 74 to introduce the sample solution SS into the second flow path 460 and fill the second inflow path 464, the second liquid reservoir 462 and the second outflow path 466 with the sample solution SS. In this embodiment, the liquid level of the sample solution SS may be located midway through the second outflow path 466 as long as it is positioned vertically above the second opening path 476. In other words, the second outflow path 466 does not have to be filled with the sample solution SS.

[0142] 14C, the control unit 22 stops driving the supply units 44, 74 and opens the flow passage valves 440, 470 of the opening passages 446, 476. Also, the control unit 22 closes the flow passage valves 440, 470 of the inlet passages 434, 464 in step S508.

[0143] Next, in step S510, the control unit 22 supplies compressed air from the downstream side of the outflow paths 436, 466 to pressurize the outflow paths 436, 466, as shown in Fig. 14D. This causes the electrophoretic running solution RS and the sample solution SS to be discharged from the opening paths 446, 476, as shown in Fig. 14D, and the liquid levels LH of the electrophoretic running solution RS and the sample solution SS drop.

[0144] Next, in step S512, the control unit 22 applies a voltage to a pair of electrodes 28 arranged in the second flow path 460 and the first flow path 430 to start electrophoresis. The control unit 22 also measures the components of the fluid moving through the capillary 424 by electroosmotic flow using the detector 26, thereby measuring the concentrations and types of components contained in the sample solution SS.

[0145] In this embodiment, the liquid level LH ​​at both ends of the capillary 424 is adjusted by the above-mentioned procedure. That is, in this embodiment, step S502 is an example of a "procedure for introducing liquid from a first inlet channel", step S506 is an example of a "procedure for introducing liquid from a second inlet channel", and step S504 is an example of a "procedure for filling the capillary with liquid". Also, in this embodiment, steps S508 and S510 are an example of an "isobaric procedure for equalizing the vertical positions of the liquid levels in the liquids stored in the first and second liquid reservoirs", and step S512 is an example of a "procedure for electrophoresing components contained in the liquid inside the capillary".

[0146] According to the component analysis device and electrophoresis method according to the present embodiment, the following actions and effects can be obtained.

[0147] (Action and Effects) In the electrophoresis unit 420 of this embodiment, flow passage valves 440, 470 are provided in the inflow channels 434, 464 to stop the flow of liquid flowing into the liquid reservoirs 432, 462 from above.

[0148] In the electrophoresis unit 420 according to this embodiment, the inflow channels 434, 464 have flow path valves 440, 470, and the flow path valves 440, 470 stop the liquid in the inflow channels 434, 464, so that the pressure of the liquid in the reservoirs 432, 462 is not affected. In other words, the pressure applied to the liquid in the reservoirs 432, 462 depends on the external pressure and the liquid height in the outflow channels 436, 466, so that the pressure applied to the liquid in the first reservoir 432 and the pressure applied to the liquid in the second reservoir 462 are equal. As a result, according to the electrophoresis unit 420 according to this embodiment, it is possible to equalize the pressure of the liquid applied to both ends of the capillary 424 without discharging the liquid in the channels 430, 460 in the reservoirs 432, 462 from the inflow channels 434, 464.

[0149] In the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, in the isobaric procedure, the liquid inside the inflow channels 434, 464 is stopped using the flow channel valves 440, 470 in the inflow channels 434, 464 that stop the flow of liquid flowing into the liquid reservoirs 432, 462 from above.

[0150] In the electrophoresis method according to the present embodiment, the liquid in the inflow channels 434, 464 is stopped using the flow channel valves 440, 470, so that the pressure of the liquid in the reservoirs 432, 462 is not affected. In other words, since the pressure applied to the liquid in the reservoirs 432, 462 depends on the external pressure and the liquid height in the outflow channels 436, 466, the pressure applied to the liquid in the first reservoir 432 and the pressure applied to the liquid in the second reservoir 462 become equal. As a result, in the electrophoresis method according to the present embodiment, it is possible to equalize the pressure of the liquid applied to both ends of the capillary 424 without discharging the liquid in the channels 430, 460 in the reservoirs 432, 462 from the inflow channels 434, 464.

[0151] In the above description, the flow path valves 440, 470 are provided in the capillary electrophoresis analysis device 410, but this is not limiting, and the electrophoresis unit 420 may have the flow path valves 440, 470. In other words, the flow path valves 440, 470 may be provided in the inflow paths 434, 464 and the opening paths 446, 476.

[0152] In the above description, in step S504, the electrophoretic solution RS is pressurized by supplying compressed air from the downstream side of the first outlet channel 436, but instead, the capillary 424 may be filled by evacuating the second flow channel 460. In this case, a pressure reducing pump may be connected to the external side of the second outlet channel 466 or the second opening channel 476.

[0153] In the above description, in step S510, the outflow paths 436, 466 are pressurized by supplying compressed air from the downstream side of the outflow paths 436, 466, but this is not limiting, and the outer side of the opening paths 446, 476 may be evacuated. In other words, instead of pressurizing the outflow paths 436, 466, the opening paths 446, 476 may be depressurized to discharge the electrophoretic solution RS or the sample solution SS, resulting in the state shown in FIG. 14D. In this case, a decompression pump may be connected to the outer side of the opening paths 446, 476.

[0154] In this embodiment as well, configurations similar to those of the first to fourth embodiments can provide the same actions and effects as those of the first to fourth embodiments.

[0155] Next, a capillary electrophoretic analysis apparatus 510 according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 15 to Fig. 17D. Note that, in the capillary electrophoretic analysis apparatus 510 according to the sixth embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0156] [Sixth embodiment] (composition) In this embodiment, the inflow channels 534, 564 are tubular liquid passages extending vertically as shown in Fig. 15, similarly to the fifth embodiment. Furthermore, upstream of the inflow channels 534, 564 in the capillary electrophoresis analyzer 510, flow channel valves 540, 570 are provided at the upstream open ends of the flow channels 530, 560. The electrophoretic solution RS or the sample solution SS supplied from the supply units 44, 74 flows into the inflow channels 534, 564 through the flow channel valves 540, 570. Furthermore, the capillary 524 connects the liquid reservoirs 532, 562 to each other.

[0157] 15, the inflow channels 534, 564 extend vertically and branch off horizontally. The portions branching off from the inflow channels 534, 564 and extending horizontally serve as opening channels 546, 576. That is, the electrophoresis unit 520 according to the present embodiment has two first opening channels 546 and two second opening channels 576.

[0158] The first opening passages 546 and the second opening passages 576 are all equal in vertical position H. That is, the two first opening passages 546 are both an example of the "first opening passage" in this embodiment, and the two second opening passages 576 are both an example of the "second opening passage" in this embodiment. The opening passages 546 and 576 in this embodiment have flow path valves 540 and 570 on the opposite side to the inflow passages 534 and 564, respectively, and open to the outside of the flow paths 530 and 560, and the pressure at the open end is equal to the external air pressure outside the flow paths 530 and 560. In other words, when the flow path valves 540 and 570 of the opening passages 546 and 576 are open, the pressure inside the opening passages 546 and 576 is equal to the external air pressure.

[0159] In this embodiment, the inflow channels 534, 564 are connected to a pressure pump via a switching valve such as a three-way valve (not shown) externally, and compressed air can be supplied from the upstream side (upper side in Figs. 17A to 17D) of the inflow channels 534, 564. In other words, the flow channels 530, 560 in this embodiment are pressurized by supplying compressed air from the upstream side of the inflow channels 534, 564.

[0160] The other configurations are the same as those of the fifth embodiment. That is, in this embodiment, the first opening passage 546 is an example of a "first liquid level adjustment section", and the second opening passage 576 is an example of a "second liquid level adjustment section". In this embodiment, the inflow passages 534, 564 and the opening passages 546, 576 are provided with flow path valves 540, 570, respectively.

[0161] Next, the procedure of the electrophoresis method according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 16 to Fig. 17D. Note that Fig. 17A to Fig. 17D show the vertical positional relationship of each component in the flow channels 530, 560, the flow channel valves 540, 570, and the capillary 524, and may omit other components.

[0162] (Electrophoresis Method) The control unit 22 according to this embodiment executes a program (not shown) to sequentially execute the procedure shown in FIG.

[0163] First, in step S602, the control unit 22 drives the first supply unit 44 as shown in FIG. 17A to introduce the electrophoretic liquid RS into the first flow path 530 and fill the first inflow path 534, the first liquid reservoir 532, and the first outflow path 536 with the electrophoretic liquid RS.

[0164] Next, in step S604, the control unit 22 fills the capillary 524 with the electrophoretic running liquid RS from the first flow path 530. In this embodiment, the electrophoretic running liquid RS is pressurized by supplying compressed air from the downstream side of the first outlet path 536, thereby filling the capillary 524.

[0165] Next, in step S606, the control unit 22 drives the second supply unit 74 as shown in FIG. 17B to introduce the sample solution SS into the second flow path 560, and fill the second inflow path 564, the second liquid reservoir 562 and the second outflow path 566 with the sample solution SS.

[0166] 17C, the control unit 22 stops driving the supply units 44, 74 and opens the flow path valves 540, 570 of the opening paths 546, 576 on the outflow paths 536, 566 side. Also, in step S608, the control unit 22 closes the flow path valves 540, 570 of the inflow paths 534, 564.

[0167] Next, in step S610, the control unit 22 supplies compressed air from the downstream side of the outflow channels 536, 566 to pressurize the outflow channels 536, 566, as shown in Fig. 17D. As a result, the electrophoretic running solution RS and the sample solution SS are discharged from the openings 546, 576 of the outflow channels 536, 566, as shown in Fig. 17D, and the liquid levels LH of the electrophoretic running solution RS and the sample solution SS drop.

[0168] In addition, in step S610, the control unit 22 according to this embodiment further opens the flow passage valves 540, 570 of the inflow passages 534, 564 and the flow passage valves 540, 570 of the opening passages 546, 576 on the inflow passages 534, 564 side.

[0169] Furthermore, in step S610, the control unit 22 according to this embodiment further supplies compressed air from the upstream side of the inflow channels 534, 564 to pressurize the inflow channels 534, 564, as shown in Fig. 17D. As a result, the electrophoretic running solution RS and the sample solution SS are discharged from the openings 546, 576 of the inflow channels 534, 564, as shown in Fig. 17D, and the liquid levels LH of the electrophoretic running solution RS and the sample solution SS drop.

[0170] Next, in step S612, the control unit 22 applies a voltage to a pair of electrodes 28 arranged in the first flow path 530 and the second flow path 560 to start electrophoresis. The control unit 22 also measures the components of the fluid moving through the capillary 524 by electroosmotic flow using the detector 26, thereby measuring the concentrations and types of components contained in the sample solution SS.

[0171] In this embodiment, the liquid level LH ​​at both ends of the capillary 524 is adjusted by the above-mentioned procedure. That is, in this embodiment, step S602 is an example of a "procedure for introducing liquid from a first inlet channel", step S606 is an example of a "procedure for introducing liquid from a second inlet channel", and step S604 is an example of a "procedure for filling the capillary with liquid". Also, in this embodiment, steps S608 and S610 are an example of an "isobaric procedure for equalizing the vertical positions of the liquid levels in the liquids stored in the first and second liquid reservoirs", and step S612 is an example of a "procedure for electrophoresing components contained in the liquid inside the capillary".

[0172] According to the component analysis device and electrophoresis method according to the present embodiment, the following actions and effects can be obtained.

[0173] (Action and Effects) The electrophoresis unit 520 of this embodiment has opening paths 546, 576 that open to the outside in the inflow paths 534, 564 and the outflow paths 536, 566, respectively. As a result, according to the electrophoresis unit 520 of this embodiment, it is possible to more quickly equalize the liquid level LH ​​of the electrophoresis solution RS or the sample solution SS compared to a case in which the opening paths 546, 576 are formed only in the outflow paths 536, 566 or the inflow paths 534, 564.

[0174] Furthermore, according to the electrophoresis unit 520 of this embodiment, even if air is mixed into the electrophoresis solution RS or the sample solution SS flowing into the inflow channels 534, 564, the air is likely to be discharged from either of the opening channels 546, 576 in the pressure equalization procedure. As a result, according to the electrophoresis unit 520 of this embodiment, it is possible to make the liquid level LH ​​uniform regardless of the sealing performance on the upstream side of the inflow channels 534, 564.

[0175] Furthermore, in the electrophoresis method according to this embodiment, the running liquid RS or the sample solution SS is discharged from the openings 546, 576 that open to the outside and that are provided in the inflow channels 534, 564 and the outflow channels 536, 566, respectively. As a result, in the electrophoresis method according to this embodiment, it is possible to uniform the liquid level LH ​​of the running liquid RS or the sample solution SS more quickly than in the case where the running liquid RS or the sample solution SS is discharged from the openings 546, 576 provided only in the outflow channels 536, 566 or the inflow channels 534, 564.

[0176] Furthermore, in the electrophoresis method according to this embodiment, in the equal pressure procedure, liquid is discharged from the inflow channels 534, 564. Therefore, even if air is mixed into the electrophoretic solution RS or the sample solution SS flowing into the inflow channels 534, 564, the air is likely to be discharged from either of the opening channels 546, 576. As a result, according to the electrophoresis method of this embodiment, it is possible to make the liquid level LH ​​uniform regardless of the sealing performance on the upstream side of the inflow channels 534, 564.

[0177] In the above description, the flow path valves 540, 570 are provided in the capillary electrophoresis analysis device 510, but this is not limiting, and the electrophoresis unit 520 may have the flow path valves 540, 570. That is, the flow path valves 540, 570 may be provided in the inflow paths 534, 564 and the multiple opening paths 546, 576, respectively.

[0178] In this embodiment, too, configurations similar to those of the first to fifth embodiments can provide the same actions and effects as those of the first to fifth embodiments.

[0179] [Other embodiments] In the above description, the capillary 24 connects the side surfaces of the first liquid reservoir 32 and the second liquid reservoir 62 in a straight line, but the technology according to the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the capillary 24 may connect the first liquid reservoir 32 and the second liquid reservoir 62 in a curved manner, as long as the detector 26 is capable of measuring the components in the capillary 24. In other words, the shape of the capillary 24 is not limited to the shape described above.

[0180] In the above description, the bottom surface of the liquid reservoir 62 is in a state where the vertical position H is the lowest in the flow paths 30, 60, but the technology according to the present disclosure is not limited to this. If the vertical positions H of the first liquid level adjustment unit 38 and the second liquid level adjustment unit 68 are equal to each other, the liquid levels LH of the first liquid reservoir 32 and the second liquid reservoir 62 will be equal, so that, for example, the inflow paths 34, 64 and the outflow paths 36, 66 may be connected to the bottom surface of the liquid reservoir 62. In other words, the fluid flowing into the liquid reservoir 62 and the fluid flowing out of the liquid reservoir 62 may pass through a position where the vertical position H is lower than the bottom surface of the liquid reservoir 62.

[0181] In addition, in the above description, the shapes of the first flow path 30 and the second flow path 60 are the same in all the embodiments, but the technology according to the present disclosure is not limited to this. That is, as long as the vertical positions H of the first liquid level adjustment unit 38 and the second liquid level adjustment unit 68 are configured to be equal to each other, the shapes of the first flow path 30 and the second flow path 60 may adopt the configurations of any of the above-mentioned embodiments. In other words, the shapes of the first flow path 30 and the second flow path 60 may adopt the shapes of different embodiments.

[0182] In the above description, in each embodiment, the electrophoresis unit 20 is formed integrally with the first flow path 30, the second flow path 60, and the capillary 24, but the technology according to the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the electrophoresis unit 20 may be formed by combining a plurality of parts divided in the vertical or horizontal direction.

[0183] In the above description, in the second embodiment, the electrophoretic solution RS and the sample solution SS flow into the channels 130 and 160 from the inflow channels 134 and 164, respectively, but the technology according to the present disclosure is not limited to this. That is, in the second embodiment, the sample solution SS and the electrophoretic solution RS may flow into the channels 130 and 160 from the outflow channels 136 and 166, respectively. This modified example may also be adopted in the third to sixth embodiments.

[0184] In these modified examples as well, the same functions and effects as those described above can be obtained.

[0185] The above describes an embodiment of the present disclosure with reference to the attached drawings. However, it is clear that a person with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present disclosure pertains can conceive of various modifications or applications within the scope of the technical ideas described in the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0186] Furthermore, preferred aspects of the present disclosure will be described below.

[0187] (Appendix 1) a first flow path including a first liquid reservoir, a first inflow path through which liquid flows into the first liquid reservoir, a first outflow path through which liquid flows out of the first liquid reservoir, and a first liquid level adjustment portion that is open to the outside; a second flow path including a second liquid reservoir, a second inflow path through which liquid flows into the second liquid reservoir, a second outflow path through which liquid flows out of the second liquid reservoir, and a second liquid level adjustment portion that is open to the outside; a capillary extending from the first liquid reservoir to the second liquid reservoir; an electrode disposed inside the first flow path and an electrode disposed inside the second flow path; Equipped with The vertical positions of the first liquid level adjustment unit and the second liquid level adjustment unit are equal to each other. Electrophoresis unit.

[0188] (Appendix 2) The first outflow passage is the first liquid level adjustment portion that extends laterally within a vertical range of the first liquid reservoir. 2. An electrophoresis unit according to claim 1.

[0189] (Appendix 3) A valve for stopping the flow of liquid flowing into the first liquid reservoir from above is provided in the first inflow path. Electrophoresis unit according to appendix 2.

[0190] (Appendix 4) The first inflow passage is the first liquid level adjustment section that causes liquid to flow into the first liquid reservoir from above and opens to the outside. 2. An electrophoresis unit according to claim 1.

[0191] (Appendix 5) A first opening path branched from the first outflow path is the first liquid level adjustment portion that opens to the outside. 2. An electrophoresis unit according to claim 1.

[0192] (Appendix 6) A valve for stopping the flow of liquid flowing out from above the first liquid reservoir is provided in the first opening path. 6. An electrophoresis unit according to claim 5.

[0193] (Appendix 7) A valve for stopping the flow of liquid flowing into the first liquid reservoir from above is provided in the first inflow path. 7. An electrophoresis unit according to claim 6.

[0194] (Appendix 8) An electrophoresis unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7, a supply unit that supplies a sample solution to the electrophoresis unit; A control unit that controls the supply unit; A component analysis device comprising:

[0195] (Appendix 9) Further comprising a detector for detecting a component of the liquid flowing inside the capillary. 9. The component analysis apparatus according to claim 8.

[0196] (Appendix 10) A step of allowing liquid to flow from a first inlet channel into a first liquid reservoir of a first flow path having a first liquid level adjustment part that opens to the outside and equalizes the pressure in the first liquid reservoir with an external pressure; a step of allowing liquid to flow from a second inflow path into a second liquid reservoir of a second flow path having a second liquid level adjustment part that is open to the outside and that equalizes the pressure of the second liquid reservoir with an external pressure and is positioned vertically at the same position as the first liquid level adjustment part; filling a capillary leading from the first reservoir to the second reservoir with liquid; a pressure equalization step of equalizing the vertical positions of the liquid levels of the liquids stored in the first liquid reservoir and the second liquid reservoir by using the first liquid level adjustment unit and the second liquid level adjustment unit; a step of electrophoresing components contained in the liquid inside the capillary with electrodes disposed inside the first flow path and inside the second flow path, respectively; The electrophoresis method comprises:

[0197] (Appendix 11) In the pressure equalization step, the liquid is discharged from a first outlet path, which is the first liquid level adjustment unit and faces laterally within a vertical range of the first liquid reservoir, to adjust the vertical position of the liquid level of the liquid stored in the first liquid reservoir. 11. An electrophoresis method according to claim 10.

[0198] (Appendix 12) In the pressure equalization step, a valve is used to stop the flow of liquid flowing from above into the first liquid reservoir in the first inlet passage, thereby stopping the flow of liquid in the first inlet passage. 12. An electrophoresis method according to claim 11.

[0199] (Appendix 13) In the pressure equalization step, liquid is caused to flow into the first liquid reservoir from above, and liquid is caused to flow out from the first inflow path, which is the first liquid level adjustment part that opens to the outside. 11. An electrophoresis method according to claim 10.

[0200] (Appendix 14) In the pressure equalization step, the liquid is caused to flow out from a first opening path which is the first liquid level adjustment portion and which branches off from a first outflow path through which the liquid flows out of the first liquid reservoir and opens to the outside. 11. An electrophoresis method according to claim 10.

[0201] (Appendix 15) In the pressure equalization step, a valve is used to stop the flow of liquid flowing out from above the first liquid reservoir in the first opening passage, and the liquid in the first opening passage is stopped. 15. An electrophoresis method according to claim 14.

[0202] (Appendix 16) In the pressure equalization step, a valve is used to stop the flow of liquid flowing from above into the first liquid reservoir in the first inflow path, thereby stopping the liquid in the first inflow path. 16. An electrophoresis method according to claim 15. [Explanation of symbols]

[0203] 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510 Capillary electrophoresis analyzer 20, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520 Electrophoresis Unit 22 Control section 24, 124, 224, 324, 424, 524 Capillary 26 Detector 28 electrodes 30, 130, 230, 330, 430, 530 First flow path 32, 132, 232, 332, 432, 532 First reservoir 34, 134, 234, 334, 434, 534 First inflow path 36, 136, 236, 336, 436, 536 First outflow channel 38, 138, 238, 338, 438, 538 First liquid level adjustment part 40, 140, 240, 340, 440, 540 First flow path valve 44 First supply part 246, 346, 446, 546 First opening path 60, 160, 260, 360, 460, 560 Second flow path 62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562 Second liquid storage part 64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564 Second inflow path 66, 166, 266, 366, 466, 566 Second outflow path 68, 168, 268, 368, 468, 568 Second liquid level adjustment part 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570 Second flow path valve 74 Second supply part 276, 376, 476, 576 Second opening path LH Liquid level RS Electrophoretic solution SS Sample solution

Claims

1. a first flow path including a first liquid reservoir, a first inflow path through which liquid flows into the first liquid reservoir, a first outflow path through which liquid flows out of the first liquid reservoir, and a first liquid level adjustment portion that is open to the outside; a second flow path including a second liquid reservoir, a second inflow path through which liquid flows into the second liquid reservoir, a second outflow path through which liquid flows out of the second liquid reservoir, and a second liquid level adjustment portion that is open to the outside; a capillary extending from the first liquid reservoir to the second liquid reservoir; an electrode disposed inside the first flow path and an electrode disposed inside the second flow path; Equipped with The vertical positions of the first liquid level adjustment unit and the second liquid level adjustment unit are equal to each other. Electrophoresis unit.

2. The first outflow passage is the first liquid level adjustment portion that extends laterally within a vertical range of the first liquid reservoir. The electrophoresis unit according to claim 1 .

3. A valve for stopping the flow of liquid flowing into the first liquid reservoir from above is provided in the first inflow path. The electrophoresis unit according to claim 2 .

4. The first inflow passage is the first liquid level adjustment section that causes liquid to flow into the first liquid reservoir from above and opens to the outside. The electrophoresis unit according to claim 1 .

5. A first opening path branched from the first outflow path is the first liquid level adjustment portion that opens to the outside. The electrophoresis unit according to claim 1 .

6. A valve for stopping the flow of liquid flowing out from above the first liquid reservoir is provided in the first opening path. The electrophoresis unit according to claim 5 .

7. A valve for stopping the flow of liquid flowing into the first liquid reservoir from above is provided in the first inflow path. The electrophoresis unit according to claim 6 .

8. An electrophoretic unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7, a supply unit that supplies a sample solution to the electrophoresis unit; A control unit that controls the supply unit; A component analysis device comprising:

9. Further comprising a detector for detecting a component of the liquid flowing inside the capillary. The component analysis device according to claim 8.

10. A step of allowing liquid to flow from a first inlet channel into a first liquid reservoir of a first flow path having a first liquid level adjustment part that opens to the outside and equalizes the pressure in the first liquid reservoir with an external pressure; A second liquid reservoir of a second flow path having a second liquid level adjustment portion that is open to the outside and equalizes the pressure of the second liquid reservoir with the external pressure and is located vertically at the same position as the first liquid level adjustment portion is supplied from a second inflow path to the second liquid reservoir. and filling a capillary leading from the first reservoir to the second reservoir with liquid; a pressure equalization step of equalizing the vertical positions of the liquid levels of the liquids stored in the first liquid reservoir and the second liquid reservoir by using the first liquid level adjustment unit and the second liquid level adjustment unit; a step of electrophoresing components contained in the liquid inside the capillary with electrodes disposed inside the first flow path and inside the second flow path, respectively; The electrophoresis method comprises:

11. In the pressure equalization step, the liquid is discharged from a first outlet path, which is the first liquid level adjustment unit and faces laterally within a vertical range of the first liquid reservoir, to adjust the vertical position of the liquid level of the liquid stored in the first liquid reservoir. The electrophoresis method according to claim 10.

12. In the pressure equalization step, a valve is used to stop the flow of liquid flowing from above into the first liquid reservoir in the first inlet passage, thereby stopping the flow of liquid in the first inlet passage. The electrophoresis method according to claim 11.

13. In the pressure equalization step, liquid is caused to flow into the first liquid reservoir from above, and liquid is caused to flow out from the first inflow path, which is the first liquid level adjustment part that opens to the outside. The electrophoresis method according to claim 10.

14. In the pressure equalization step, the liquid is caused to flow out from a first opening path which is the first liquid level adjustment portion and which branches off from a first outflow path through which the liquid flows out of the first liquid reservoir and opens to the outside. The electrophoresis method according to claim 10.

15. In the pressure equalization step, a valve is used to stop the flow of liquid flowing out from above the first liquid reservoir in the first opening passage, and the liquid in the first opening passage is stopped. The electrophoresis method according to claim 14.

16. In the pressure equalization step, a valve is used to stop the flow of liquid flowing from above into the first liquid reservoir in the first inflow passage, thereby stopping the liquid in the first inflow passage. The electrophoresis method according to claim 15.

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