Method for producing a plurality of identical copies of a two-dimensional test array of probe molecules
OwnerRonald Frankinventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
The invention relates to a method for producing a plurality of identical copies of a two-dimensional closest-packed test array of probe molecules used to detect target biomolecules on the basis of fiber bundles that are cut to desired lengths.
Claims20
A method for the production of a large number of identical copies of a planar test array of probe molecules for the detection of target molecules, in which
- (a) a large number of fibres is used as the starting point, wherein each fibre has only one type of probe molecule for the detection of one type of target molecule and the number of fibres corresponds to at least the number of different types of target molecules to be detected,
- (b) the large number of fibres is arranged in parallel orientation,
- (c) the individual fibres are bundled to form a fibre bundle and are brought into the closest packing (viewed at right angles to the cross-section of the fibres),
- (d) the arrangement of the individual fibres with respect to one another in the fibre bundle is unalterably fixed so that each fibre occupies a geometrically defined position and a solidified fibre bundle is obtained, and
- (e) the solidified fibre bundle is cut at desired intervals at right angles to the length of the fibres, producing a large number of identical copies of a planar test array having a pattern of probe molecules for the detection of target molecules in geometrically defined positions on the cut surfaces.
A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein a large number of probe molecules is in each case immobilised on the respective surfaces of a large number of fibres or is synthesised on those surfaces, wherein each surface can be formed by the accessible inner and outer surface.
A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the fibres consist of porous synthetic material, especially polyester, polyurethane or nylon, cellulose, cellulose acetate, cotton or silk, especially natural silk.
A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the combination of the fibres to form a fibre bundle is effected by twisting or intertwining in the same direction.
A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the unalterable fixing of the arrangement of the fibres with respect to one another and the solidification of the fibre bundle are effected by embedding or polymerisation into a solidifiable material and subsequent hardening, full polymerisation or freezing thereof.
A method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the solidified fibre bundle is cut with a microtome or a cryotome.
A planar test array of probe molecules for the detection of target molecules, wherein the test array is formed by the most compact 2-dimensional arrangement or the closest packing of planar elements having a surface area, and specifically equal surface areas, in one and the same plane.
An apparatus according to claim 17, namely holding, washing or incubation apparatus for test array(s).
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.