Automated extraction and purification of samples using optical tweezers

A method of purifying a forensic sample in an automated extraction and purification system which uses optical tweezers, comprising:

• introducing the forensic sample into a first region;
• introducing a buffer into a second region;
• and
• using the optical tweezers to move selected particles of the sample from said first region into said second region.

An automated extraction and purification apparatus for purifying a forensic sample using optical tweezers, comprising:

• an optical trapping system;
• an input channel through which the sample is introduced;
• a chamber which receives the sample from the input channel;
• a collection channel through which selected particles of the sample are removed;
• and
• an output through which uniselected particles of the sample are removed.

An automated extraction and purification apparatus for purifying a forensic sample using optical tweezers, comprising:

• an optical trapping system;
• a first region through which the sample is introduced;
• a second region through which buffer is introduced;
• wherein the optical tweezers is used to move selected particles of the sample from the first region to the second region.