Analytical method and apparatus

A method for qualitative, semi-quantitative or quantitative determination of at least two analytes in an aqueous sample containing or suspected of containing the analytes, said method comprising the steps of:

• (i) providing a flow matrix comprising a separation zone extending in a first dimension thereof, and a detection zone extending in said first dimension adjacent the separation zone, said detection zone comprising an immobilized reagent capable of capturing said analytes through biospecific interaction therewith,
• (ii) applying said sample to the flow matrix at or upstream of the separation zone,
• (iii) initiating a first essentially aqueous fluid flow in the flow matrix along the separation zone in said first dimension to transport the analytes through the separation zone to be separated therein,
• (iv) interrupting said first fluid flow and initiating a second essentially aqueous fluid flow in a second dimension of the flow matrix substantially transverse to said first dimension towards the detection zone to transport said separated analytes to the detection zone to be captured therein by said immobilized reagent, and
• (v) determining the analytes in the detection zone,
• wherein the fluid flows in said matrix are assisted by capillary forces, and
• wherein the fluid transport in the flow matrix is at least assisted by an absorbent element which may be separate from or integral with the flow matrix.