Reagent cartridge and methods for detection of cells

An apparatus, comprising:

• a housing configured to be coupled to a reaction chamber, the housing defining a reagent volume configured to receive a reagent container, the housing including a puncturer having a sharp point configured to pierce a frangible portion of the reagent container, the puncturer defining a plurality of transfer pathways spaced circumferentially about the sharp point, each transfer pathway from the plurality of transfer pathways in fluid communication with an inner volume of the reaction chamber when the housing is coupled to the reaction chamber;
• and
• an actuator having a plunger portion disposed within the reagent volume, an engagement portion of the actuator configured to be manipulated to move the plunger portion within the reagent volume such that the sharp point pierces the frangible portion of the reagent container to convey a reagent from the reagent container into the reaction chamber via the plurality of transfer pathways.

An apparatus, comprising:

• a housing configured to be coupled to a reaction chamber, the housing defining a reagent volume configured to receive a reagent container, the housing including a puncturer configured to pierce a frangible portion of the reagent container, the puncturer defining a plurality of transfer pathways spaced apart along an outer surface of the puncturer, each transfer pathway from the plurality of transfer pathways in fluid communication with an inner volume of the reaction chamber when the housing is coupled to the reaction chamber;
• and
• an actuator having a plunger portion disposed within the reagent volume, an engagement portion of the actuator configured to be manipulated to move the plunger portion within the reagent volume such that the puncturer pierces the frangible portion of the reagent container to convey a reagent from the reagent container into the reaction chamber via the plurality of transfer pathways.