Automatic multiple-sample applicator and electrophoresis apparatus

Abstract

An apparatus for performing electrophoresis and a multiple-sample applicator for use therewith. Electrophoresis is a physical process in which electrically charged molecules and colloidal particles, upon the application of a DC current, migrate along a gel or a membrane that is wetted with an electrolyte. If a membrane is used, its middle section is kept in tension horizontally above an electrolyte tank, while the ends of the membrane hang down into the electrolyte. If a gel is used, it is held in a tray which is placed on a cooling plate, and wicks make contact with the electrolyte. The tank has unique protected electrodes for conducting the DC current. A multiple-sample applicator is provided which coacts with a novel tank cover to permit an operator either to depress a single button, thus causing multiple samples to be deposited on the gel or on the membrane simultaneously, or to depress one or more sample applicators separately by means of a separate button for each applicator. Greater resolution is achieved by performing two dimensional migrations in a square gel tray. First, the sample is pulled apart in a linear path by the electric current, and then the square gel tray is lifted and turned 90.degree. so that the first migration is pulled apart from an orthogonal direction. The square gel tray is held in place at two opposite corners by retainers on the temperature-controlled plate. These retainers insure an exact 90.degree. change when the tray is repositioned.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.