Method for studying nucleic acids within immobilized specimens

Abstract

An apparatus for the automated detection of target nucleic acid sequences in which multiple biological samples are individually incorporated into a matrix and treated in a stepwise fashion to expose, amplify, detect and enumerate the presence of original, target nucleotide sequences in each sample. The samples are held together with other samples in a chamber connected by means of a fluid flow conduit to which the matrices make connection via numerous jet-spray ports for the injection of various fluids from a plurality of reservoirs used to process the samples. Solvents and reagents are used to degrade and wash cellular structures and contaminants away from the nucleic acids. Primer and polymerase molecules are used to replicate the target sequences of nucleic acids in the sample. Labeled DNA probe molecules serve to hybridize to the amplified target sequences for detection. Appropriate buffers allow these manipulations on the nucleic acid molecules in the samples. The system also includes a pump to draw the fluids from the reservoirs and force them through the jet spray manifolds into the main chamber and valves under the control of a microprocessor. The system also includes fans and heating elements for regulating temperature and humidity. Different nucleic acid targets in different biological specimens are accommodated by regulating the quantity, duration, pH, temperature and pressure of fluids flowing from the reservoirs.