Integrated Buffer Dual-Path Immunoassay Device

A test device for use with a solution and for use with a conjugate having a marker, the test device for determining the presence of a ligand in a liquid sample, the test device comprising:

• a) a first sorbent strip having a first location for receiving the solution and defining a first migration path for the solution and the conjugate;
• b) a second sorbent strip distinct from said first sorbent strip having a second location for receiving the liquid sample and defining a second migration path for the sample distinct from said first migration path;
• and
• c) a test site located on or in at least one of said first sorbent strip or said second sorbent strip, said test site having an immobilized ligand-binding mechanism, said first and second sorbent strips touching each other at the test site, and said second migration path extending laterally from said second location to at least said test site;
• d) a housing that houses said first and second sorbent strips, said housing defining a first opening aligned with said first location, a second opening aligned with said second location, and a window aligned with said test site and through which said test site is viewable;
• e) a sealed reservoir filled with the solution, said sealed reservoir disposed in alignment with said first opening and coupled to said housing;
• and
• f) an opener coupled to said housing, said opener arranged to rotate from a first position in which the opener is not in contact with said sealed reservoir and to rotate to a second position in which the opener causes said sealed reservoir to effect a release of the solution from said reservoir and into said first opening and onto said first sorbent strip.

A method of using a test device with a liquid solution, the method comprising:

• a) providing a test device comprising:
• i) a housing that houses a plurality of sorbent strips, at least one strip having a location for receiving the solution, said housing defining at least an opening aligned above said location for receiving the solution,
• ii) a sealed reservoir filled with the liquid solution, said reservoir being disposed in alignment with said opening and coupled to said housing, and
• iii) an opener coupled to said housing, said opener arranged to rotate from a first position, in which said opener is not in contact with said sealed reservoir, to a second position, in which said opener causes said sealed reservoir to effect a release of the solution from said reservoir and into said opening and onto said sorbent strip housed within said housing;
• and
• b) rotating said opener from said first position to said second position to effect a release of the solution from said reservoir and into said opening and onto said sorbent strip housed within said housing.