Device for extracting nucleic acid from a sample

A device for extracting nucleic acid from a sample, the sample containing cells or viruses, the device comprising a cartridge having:

• a) a lysing chamber for lysing the cells or viruses to release the nucleic acid therefrom, wherein the lysing chamber contains a capture material for capturing the cells or viruses as the sample flows through the lysing chamber, and wherein the lysing chamber further contains a removal material for holding unwanted material in the lysing chamber;
• b) at least one waste chamber for receiving sample fluid that has flowed through the lysing chamber;
• c) a third chamber for receiving the nucleic acid, wherein the third chamber is contained within a reaction vessel and defined by a minor wall of a rigid frame and two opposing major walls of flexible sheets, and wherein the reaction vessel protrudes outwardly from the cartridge;
• and
• d) at least one flow controller for directing the sample fluid that has flowed through the lysing chamber to flow into the at least one waste chamber and for directing the nucleic acid to flow into the third chamber.