Closed Sample Prep System Reducing Dead Volume via Segmented Buffer Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sample preparation systems face challenges in efficiently prewashing samples in completely closed systems, particularly when handling small samples with rare cells, leading to issues with dead volume and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A sample preparation method and system that includes a buffer solution supply step, a transfer step, a hollow fiber treatment step, and a prewashing step, all performed in a sealed state, allowing for efficient prewashing and reduction of dead volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If prewashing is performed in a completely closed sample preparation system, then dead volume is reduced and sample input accuracy is improved, but it becomes difficult to perform prewashing
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the prewashing function into two separate containers (first container and second container) connected by a flow path. This segmentation allows buffer solution to be supplied to one container, passed through the hollow fiber module, and then flow into the other container, enabling prewashing to be performed in a closed system without requiring direct external access to the sample container.
Solution Approach 2:
The hollow fiber module acts as an intermediary component between the two containers. Buffer solution supplied to the first container passes through the hollow fiber module and flows into the second container, enabling indirect prewashing of the sample in the closed system without direct external intervention.
2Productivity
If the number of samples handled is small, then sample preparation efficiency is improved for rare cells, but dead volume becomes more significant
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the buffer solution path into two separate containers connected through the hollow fiber module, the system minimizes the volume of buffer solution required for prewashing. This reduces dead volume while maintaining efficient sample preparation for small numbers of rare cells.
Data Source
AI summary
A main object is to provide a technique of easily performing prewashing in a completely closed sample preparation system. The present technology provides a sample preparation method including: a buffer solution supply step of supplying a buffer solution from a buffer solution container to an empty container; a transfer step of transferring a sample from a sample container to a reservoir; a hollow fiber treatment step of passing the sample in the reservoir through a hollow fiber module; and a prewashing step of transferring the buffer solution in the empty container to the sample container and then transferring the buffer solution to the reservoir, the sampling preparation method performing the steps in a sealed state.