Lab-in-a Tube Molecular Analyzer

描述（由申请人提供）：本提案的目的是开发一种新型核酸检测系统，旨在为诊断和医疗保健行业提供革命性的好处。该系统将使经验不足的专业人员能够在更便宜的环境中以更快的速度进行更复杂的核酸检测。本产品的技术基础是试管实验室平台。该设备将自动化并整合所有核酸检测步骤，包括DNA提取，扩增和检测，在封闭的样管内；因此，降低了测试的复杂性、周转时间、成本以及污染和操作错误的可能性。此外，样管用于直接采集生物原料样品。基因组DNA的快速提取和扩增已在该系统的原型上实现，时间不到20分钟。该系统在SNP检测、基因分型、突变检测等方面有着广泛的应用。这种从样本到答案的系统是手持式的，适用于各种环境中的护理点或现场使用。它是专为延长电池操作。我们相信，该系统将引领下一代药物发现、疾病治疗、临床诊断、生物防御以及农业和工业测试的工具。计划于2004年投入商业应用。

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The objective of this proposal is to develop a novel nucleic acid testing system intended to provide revolutionary benefits to the diagnostics and healthcare industry. The system will enable the less experienced professional to perform more sophisticated nucleic acid testing in a less expensive setting with greater speed. The technical foundation of this product is the lab-in-a-tube platform. This device will automate and integrate all nucleic acid testing steps, including DNA extraction, amplification and detection, within a closed sample tube; thus, reducing test complexity, turnaround time, cost and the possibility of contamination and operator error. In addition, the sample tube is used to directly collect raw biological samples. Rapid extraction and amplification of genomic DNA has been achieved on a prototype of the system in less than 20 minutes. The system has wide reaching applications to SNP detection, genotyping, and mutation detection. This sample-to-answer system is handheld for point-of-care or field use in a variety of environments. It is designed for extended battery operation. We believe that this system will lead the next-generation of tools for pharmaceutical discovery, therapeutics for disease, clinical diagnostics, bio-defense and agricultural and industrial testing. It is planned for commercial introduction in 2004.