GB2642542A

GB2642542A - A sample treatment apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2642542A
Application number: GB2410219.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: L Cavuto Matthew; Rodriguez Manzano Jesus; Gratiot Daniel; Zimmerman Sharpe Julia
Original assignee: Protondx Ltd
Current assignee: Protondx Ltd
Priority date: 2024-07-12
Filing date: 2024-07-12
Publication date: 2026-01-14
Also published as: WO2026013286A1; GB202410219D0

Abstract

A sample treatment apparatus 200, for sample homogenisation for example, comprises; a holder 204 configured to receive a sample vessel 300 containing a treatment body; and a magnetic actuator configured to generate a moving magnetic field for manipulating the treatment body in the vessel. Also described is a treatment body comprising a magnet for mechanical agitation of a sample and suitable for use in a sample treatment apparatus. A treatment body is also disclosed which is elongate and comprises a fin, wherein the fin may be helical or perforated. A treatment body having a recess in an outer surface for encouraging cavitation in a sample is also disclosed.

Description

[0001] A SAMPLE TREATMENT APPARATUS

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The disclosure relates to a sample treatment apparatus. More particularly, it relates to a sample treatment apparatus, a treatment body for mechanical agitation of a sample and suitable for use in a sample treatment apparatus, and a sample treatment system including the sample treatment apparatus.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Before analysis, samples (e.g., chemical and/or biological samples) need to be properly treated and prepared. The exact nature of the sample treatment depends on the nature of the sample itself, as well as the analytical technique which is to be used. For example, in biological samples many materials (such as DNA or proteins) cannot be analysed in situ and so need to be separated out from other material for analysis.

[0006] Different treatment techniques typically require different types of apparatus. For example, one technique for tissue homogenisation is bead homogenisation. This works by searing the sample in a tube with a large number of small beads and a buffer solution. The tube is then vigorously and rapidly shaken, causing the beads to repeatedly collide with and dissociate the sample. Such a technique can be used to isolate DNA or RNA, for example. However, bead beating devices are typically large pieces of equipment, and so are usually isolated to laboratory setting and are difficult to use in the field. Furthermore, additional treatment steps may be required after the sample treatment has been performed, such as filtering, to remove the beads, and centrifuging, to isolate the desired analyte from the rest of the sample and the buffer solution. Commonly, centrifuging only is performed, and then the supernatant (containing the target molecules, e.g. DNA) is removed. The beads and unwanted sample material is left behind at the bottom of the sample vessel. These steps require further specialised equipment, and add complexity to the sample treatment process. The present invention has been devised in light of the above considerations and other disadvantages encountered in the prior art.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sample treatment apparatus comprising a holder configured to receive a sample vessel containing a treatment body; and a magnetic actuator configured to generate a moving magnetic field for manipulating the treatment body. By being provided in this way, and as described in more detail below, the present invention allows an improved sample treatment apparatus which can be smaller than known arrangements, and in which the moving magnetic field can be used to provide a number of different treatment effects by manipulating the treatment body in different ways. For example, the sample treatment apparatus may be used to provide sample homogenisation, sample preservation, microbial or cell lysis, temperature modulation and enzyme activation or deactivation (e.g., activating a digestion enzyme such as proteinase K), and is suitable for use with both solid samples and liquid samples. It will be appreciated that the term 'sample' as used herein encompasses the tissue or other substance (whether solid or liquid) containing the desired analyte for testing, as well as mixtures of that substance with other fluids or liquids such as buffer solutions or the like.

[0009] Optionally, the magnetic actuator may comprise a rotatable magnet, wherein the moving magnetic field is generated by rotating the magnet. In some examples, the sample treatment apparatus may comprise a motor for rotating the rotatable magnet. For example, a motor may be provided within the treatment apparatus or may be an external motor which is connectable to the apparatus, such as a drill or a die grinder (e.g., Dremel) or the like. Of course, in other examples it is also envisaged that the rotatable magnet could be manually actuated, for example by using a crank handle or the like.

[0010] Optionally, the sample treatment apparatus may be configured to position the sample vessel in at least one of a first orientation wherein the sample vessel is received by the holder at a first angle relative to the magnetic actuator; and a second orientation wherein the sample vessel is received by the holder at a second angle relative to the magnetic actuator. For example, the holder may comprise a plurality of holding locations or holding positions for holding the vessel at various different angles relative to the magnetic actuator, or the magnetic actuator itself may be moveable or adjustable to provide the different relative orientations (e.g., with the sample vessel in a single position). Providing a sample treatment apparatus in this way allows the treatment apparatus to be operated or used in a number of different 'modes', in which the treatment body is manipulated in a different manner by the moving magnetic field in order to achieve different sample treatment effects. For example, a first orientation may provide the sample vessel at an angle which is parallel to or substantially parallel to an axis of rotation of the magnetic actuator, resulting in a first movement mode of the treatment body, and a second orientation may provide the sample vessel at an angle which is perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the magnetic actuator, resulting in a second movement mode of the treatment body. Angles between perpendicular and parallel to the axis of rotation of the magnetic actuator may also be chosen, which may provide a blended movement mode of the treatment body.

[0011] Optionally, the sample treatment apparatus is configured to receive the sample vessel by the holder at any angle between the first orientation and the second orientation. This may provide a 'blended' mode of operation, in which effects of both the first orientation and the second orientation are achieved simultaneously.

[0012] Optionally, the sample treatment apparatus may comprise a main body for housing the magnetic actuator, the holder being disposed on an external face of the main body, the main body being configured such that the external face (i.e., the face on which the holder is disposed) is at an acute angle relative to a surface upon which the main body is supported (e.g., a lab bench). . The main body may also house a motor for actuating the magnetic actuator, such as for rotating a rotatable magnet. In certain examples, the main body may comprise an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the acute angle. Providing the external surface on which the holder is disposed at an acute angle relative to a surface upon which the main body is supported enhances the effect of the treatment apparatus, for example by aiding an operational mode in which the treatment body is moved longitudinally within the sample vessel, by using gravity to assist in moving the treatment body to treat a sample.

[0013] Optionally, the sample treatment apparatus may comprise a plurality of holders, allowing the treatment apparatus to simultaneously treat a corresponding plurality of samples. In some examples, the sample treatment apparatus may comprise a plurality of magnetic actuators (e.g., a plurality of rotatable magnets). For example, there may be a respective magnetic actuator for each holder. [0010] Optionally, the sample treatment apparatus may comprise a heating element for heating a sample, for example the heating element may be provided at or about the holder to heat the sample, and a heating element may enhance or provide further sample treatment effects.

[0014] Optionally, the sample treatment apparatus may comprise a sonicator for agitating a sample. For example, the sonicator may be provided at or about the holder to agitate the sample, and a heating element may enhance or provide further sample treatment effects. A sonicator may be particularly useful for microbial lysis, by provoking generation of cavitation bubbles which create heat and pressure.

[0015] At its most general, a second aspect of the present invention provides a treatment body for mechanical agitation of a sample in a sample vessel. For example, the treatment body may be suitable for use in a sample treatment apparatus according to the first aspect. The treatment body may be provided in a number of forms for achieving different sample treatment effects, as described herein. [0013] In a first example of the second aspect, there is provided a treatment body for mechanical agitation of a sample in a sample vessel and suitable for use in a sample treatment apparatus (e.g., according to the first aspect), wherein the treatment body comprises a magnet. This allows the treatment body to be manipulated by a moving magnetic field, and by changing the relative orientation of the moving magnetic field and the treatment body a number of different sample treatment effects may be achieved. This is caused by the arrangement of the magnetic poles of the treatment body relative to the magnetic field, wherein different arrangements and orientations of those poles relative to the magnetic field causes movement of the treatment body in different ways to achieve different sample treatment effects. The sample treatment body may thereby be manipulated easily and simply by any external device providing a moving magnetic field.

[0016] In a second example of the second aspect, there is provided a treatment body for mechanical agitation of a sample in a sample vessel and suitable for use in a sample treatment apparatus (e.g., according to the first aspect), wherein the treatment body is substantially elongate and comprises a fin which extends along a longitudinal face of the treatment body for mixing and masticating a sample as the treatment body moves within a sample vessel. The fin also helps to space the treatment body away from the sidewall of a sample vessel in use, reducing friction between the treatment body and the sample vessel and providing space allowing the sample to flow past the treatment body as the treatment body moves through the sample. The arrangement of the fin may also promote different treatment effects depending on the motion of the treatment body, as described herein. The fin may be provided in the form of a ridge or protrusion from an outer surface of the treatment body. In other examples, the fin may be provided in the form of an edge of the treatment body, for example where the treatment body takes the form of an elongate prism shape or the like.

[0017] In a third example of the second aspect, there is provided a treatment body for mechanical agitation of a sample in a sample vessel and suitable for use in a sample treatment apparatus (e.g., according to the first aspect), wherein the treatment body comprises a recess into an outer surface thereof for encouraging cavitation as the treatment body moves through a sample. By providing recesses into the outer surface of the treatment body in this way, the treatment body is also more effective at heating a sample as it moves though the sample within a sample vessel, which may provide a further sample treatment effect, such as enzyme activation or deactivation. For example, cavitation provided by the recess may encourage the breakdown of microbial and cellular structures through the generation of shockwaves within the fluid as cavitation bubbles are created and collapse, and generating heat further promotes such breakdown.

[0018] Features of the above examples may be combined in any suitable combination to provide other examples of treatment bodies in accordance with the second aspect of the present invention. For example, the treatment body may comprise a magnet and a fin which extends along a longitudinal face of the treatment body; a recess for encouraging cavitation and the fin; the magnet and the recess; the magnet and the fin and the recess etc. [0017] Optionally, in certain examples, the treatment body may comprise a housing which encases the magnet. For example, the housing may comprise the fin and/or the recess. The housing may be made of a different material to the magnet, such as a plastic material. The housing may be formed in any suitable manner such as over-moulding, two or more parts which are press-fitted together to encase the magnet (e.g, as two halves fitted about the magnet, or the magnet may be fitted into a hole or cavity in a housing portion, with the cavity then sealed with a plug). Portions of the housing may be sealed by ultrasonic welding, gluing, snap-fitting or any suitable method.

[0019] Optionally, the magnet may have a rectangular prism shape. For example, the magnet may be substantially cube-shaped. By being provided in this way, the magnet has major poles (i.e., a north pole and a south pole), but the shape of the magnet also means that the magnet is not magnetically symmetrical in the radial direction (that is, radially about the longitudinal axis of the treatment body). Such a shape therefore helps the treatment body be used in a number of different operating modes, as the asymmetry of the magnetic field about the treatment body affects how the treatment body is manipulated by a moving magnetic field (e.g., generated by a magnetic actuator) in different orientations of the treatment body relative to the moving magnetic field, as described in more detail below.

[0020] Optionally, poles of the magnet (e.g., the major poles) may be aligned at an acute angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the treatment body. This helps the treatment body be used in a number of different operating modes, by ensuring that the magnetic field generated by the magnet is affected by a moving magnetic field in different orientations of the treatment body in a sample vessel relative to the moving magnetic field. For example, this allows combined operating modes to be achieved even with a magnet that generates a symmetrical magnetic field radially about the longitudinal axis of the treatment body (e.g., a cylindrical magnet).

[0021] Optionally, the fin may follow a helical path about the treatment body. For example, the treatment body may take the form of an elongate twisted prism shape, such that edges of the prism shape provide helical fins. In other examples, the fin may be provided at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the treatment body. By being provided in this way the treatment body may have an improved blending effect for tissue treatment, particularly in modes where the treatment body moves longitudinally through a sample (as the helical shape of the fin aids generation of vortices in the sample which may otherwise not be present). For example, angled or helical fins may provoke vortices in the sample as the treatment body is moved through the sample. Additionally the helical arrangement results in increased contact with the vessel wall as the treatment body moves (either longitudinally with a rocking motion or while spinning about its longitudinal axis) to then yield a better mastication effect.

[0022] Optionally, the fin may be perforated to encourage cavitation and turbulence as the treatment body moves through a sample. In this way, the fin itself may also provide the treatment effects produced by cavitation holes.

[0023] Optionally, the treatment body may comprise a plurality of fins spaced circumferentially about the treatment body.

[0024] Optionally, the recess is in at least one of a longitudinal face and an end face of the treatment body. For example, the treatment body may have a plurality of such recesses in at least one of a longitudinal face and an end face of the treatment body.

[0025] Optionally, the treatment body may be substantially cylindrical. For example, a fin may be provided as a ridge which protrudes outwardly from the cylindrical treatment body.

[0026] Optionally, at least one of a longitudinal face and an end face of the treatment body may comprise a protrusion, which may be provided in addition to a fin. For example, the treatment body may comprise a plurality of such protrusions. The or each protrusion may be configured (e.g., placed, shaped and/or sized) to masticate and break apart tissue. The or each protrusion may be configured (e.g., placed, shaped and/or sized) for spacing the treatment body from a side wall or an end wall of a sample vessel when the sample is introduced into or dispensed from the sample vessel, allowing fluid to flow past the treatment body more easily. In one such example, an end face of the treatment body may comprise a plurality of castellations for spacing the treatment body from an end wall of the sample vessel, providing a fluid flow path between the treatment body and the side wall and/or end face of the sample vessel.

[0027] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sample treatment system comprising a treatment body according to the second aspect, and a sample vessel for receiving the treatment body.

[0028] Optionally, the sample vessel may comprise a syringe. This enable a sample to be easily dispensed after sample treatment has been performed, simplifying the sample analysis process and reducing the number of steps required. In other examples, the sample vessel may be a sample tube (e.g., a flip-cap sample tube, or a screw-cap sample tube), or any other suitable vessel that can contain liquid.

[0029] Optionally, the sample vessel may comprise a filter. For example, the filter may be unitary with the sample vessel, or may be detachably connectable or mountable to or within the sample vessel. Such an arrangement may simplify the sample analysis procedure by removing the need for a separate filtering step to be performed after sample treatment. In some examples, the filter may be configured to capture a predetermined target molecule, such as a nucleic acid or a protein. For example, the filter may be a silica filter or the like.

[0030] Optionally, the sample treatment system may comprise a plurality of homogenisation particles. The homogenisation particles may aid particular sample treatments, such as tissue homogenisation, by aiding in the breaking down of a sample. For example, the plurality of homogenisation particles may comprise ceramic or glass shards or beads, and may be received within the sample vessel in addition to the treatment body in use.

[0031] Optionally, the sample treatment system may further comprise a sample treatment apparatus according to the first aspect.

[0032] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for target molecule extraction and/or target molecule detection, wherein the system comprises a sample treatment apparatus according to the first aspect. For example, the sample treatment apparatus may form one module of an all-in-one system (e.g., an automated system) for identifying, detecting, and/or extracting target molecules. In such arrangements, the sample vessel may be part of a cartridge in such a system, for example. In examples, the system for target molecular extraction and/or target molecule detection may comprise any of the features described above with respect to the sample treatment system, such as a filter.

[0033] The invention includes the combination of the aspects and optional features described except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided.

[0034] SUMMARY OF FIGURES

[0035] Example embodiments illustrating the principles of the invention will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures, in which like numerals denote like elements.

[0036] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a sample treatment system that is an example of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a magnetic actuator and a sample vessel.

[0038] Figure 3 shows a cross-section view of the sample treatment system of Fig. 1.

[0039] Figure 4 shows a cross-section view of the sample treatment system of Fig. 1.

[0040] Figure 5 shows views of a treatment body that is an example of the present invention. [0039] Figure 6 show views of another treatment body that is another example of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 7 shows a close view of an end face of a treatment body that is a further example of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 8 shows a side view of a sample treatment system that is an example of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 9 shows a transparent side view of a treatment body that is further example of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a treatment body that is a further example of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 11 shows a perspective view of a treatment body that is a further example of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 12 shows a cross-section view of a treatment body that is a further example of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 13 shows a cross-section view of a treatment body that is a further example of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 14 shows perspective views of a sample vessel that may be used in examples of the present invention, with a first filter type.

[0049] Figure 14 shows perspective views of a sample vessel that may be used in example of the present invention, with a second filter type.

[0050] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Aspects and embodiments of the present invention will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[0052] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a sample treatment system 100 which comprises a sample treatment apparatus 200 and a sample vessel 300. The sample vessel 300 contains a treatment body, as will be described in more detail below. In this example, the sample vessel 300 is a syringe, allowing the sample and/or analyte to be easily dispensed after treatment, but it will be appreciated that any suitable sample vessel may be used with the apparatus 200.

[0053] The sample treatment apparatus 200 comprises a main body 202 which houses a magnetic actuator On an external face 216 of the main body 202, the sample treatment apparatus 200 comprises a holder 204 which is configured to receive the sample vessel 300. In particular, the holder 204 comprises two recesses or grooves into which the sample vessel 300 can be received, the grooves being disposed at an angle relative to one another such that the sample vessel 300 can be arranged in two different orientations relative to the magnetic actuator housed within the treatment apparatus 200. As shown in Fig. 1, these two grooves are perpendicular to one another, thereby allowing the treatment apparatus 200 to provide two different treatment modes as described herein. In other examples, the holder 204 may comprise a single recess or groove, and may be moveable (e.g., rotatable) to orient that sample vessel 300 at different angles relative to the magnetic actuator. [0052] In use, the sample vessel 300 is further secured within the holder by a lid 206, which can be moved from the open position shown in Fig. 1 in order to enclose the sample vessel 300 while sample treatment is underway. An inner surface of the lid 206 comprises a compressible pad 218, which is arranged to hold the sample vessel 300 in the holder 204 when the lid 206 is closed. As the pad 218 is compressible (e.g., made of a compressible material such as rubber or the like), the compressible pad 218 helps to reduce vibrations when the sample treatment apparatus 200 is in use. The compressible pad 218 may be removable to help with cleaning and disinfecting, and also to allow the compressible pad 218 to be exchangeable with pads of different configurations, for example to suit differently sized and/or shaped sample vessels.

[0054] The main body 202 is configured such that the external face 216, upon which the holder 204 is disposed, is at an acute angle relative to a surface upon which the main body 202 is supported (such as a lab bench). The treatment apparatus 200 therefore comprises a base portion in the form of a plurality of feet 208a, 208b, 208c, and a stand 210. In this example, the stand 210 supports the main body 202 at a fixed acute angle of 45° relative to the feet 208a, 208b, 208c and to the surface on which the sample treatment apparatus 200 rests. However, in other examples, the feet 208a, 208b, 208c and/or the stand 210 may be adjustable to change this angle. As shown in Fig. 1, by being provided at an acute angle, the external face 216, holder 204 and sample vessel 300 are thereby also angled relative to the base portion. In this way, gravity may assist in moving the treatment body which is within the sample vessel 300, as described below.

[0055] The treatment apparatus 200 comprises a power switch 212 for controlling the supply of power to the magnetic actuator. The power switch 212 may also be used to set a direction of motion of the magnetic actuator (e.g., the power switch 212 may have forward, reverse and off settings). The main body 202 further comprises a control knob 214 for setting a speed of the magnetic actuator. For example, the magnetic actuator may be operated at a low speed' setting (e.g., a rotation speed of 500 rpm) and a 'high speed' setting (e.g., a rotation speed of 5000 rpm). Of course, it will be appreciated that in other examples the treatment apparatus 200 may be automatically programmed, and only require an operating mode or sample treatment program to be selected. The treatment apparatus 200 may, for example, be provided with a screen to allow settings to be adjusted, a mode to be selected, and to display any suitable information to a user.

[0056] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of the sample vessel 300 and a magnetic actuator 400. The magnetic actuator 400 is housed within the main body 202 of the same treatment apparatus 200 as described above with respect to Fig. 1, for example, such that the holder 204 receives the sample vessel 300 in generally the same position relative to the magnetic actuator 400.

[0057] The magnetic actuator 400 comprises a rotatable magnet 402 and a motor 404 which is arranged to rotate the rotatable magnet 402. In particular, the motor 404 is connected to a rotatable shaft 406 onto which the rotatable magnet 402 is fitted. A compliant coupling 410 connects two portions of the shaft 406 between the motor 404 and the rotatable magnet 402 in order to ensure smooth rotation of the shaft 406 and reduce mechanism stress in the system due to any misalignment between the shaft 406 and the motor 404, and also reduce vibrations when the magnetic actuator 400 is in use. For example, the compliant coupling 410 may be a slotted coupling, a helical shaft coupling or the like. A distal end of the shaft 406, away from the motor 404, is received within a bearing 408 so that it is able to freely rotate. In use, power is supplied to the motor 404 so as to rotate the magnet 402 in order to generate a moving magnetic field for manipulating a treatment body within the sample vessel 300.

[0058] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the sample vessel 300 is received by the holder 204 such that the sample vessel 300 is oriented at a first angle relative to the magnetic actuator 400, specifically the sample vessel is received by the holder 204 to be perpendicular relative to the shaft 406, and therefore perpendicular to the rotation axis of the magnet 402. However, by being received in the other position defined by the holder 204 described above, the sample vessel 300 may be oriented at a second angle relative to the magnetic actuator 400, specifically the sample vessel may also be received by the holder 204 to be parallel to the shaft 406, and therefore parallel to the rotation axis of the magnet 402. When the magnet 402 is rotated, the moving magnetic field which is generated manipulates the treatment body within the sample vessel 300 differently in each of these relative orientations, providing different sample treatment effects as described herein. Of course, it will be appreciated that in other examples, the sample treatment apparatus may be configured to position the sample vessel in other orientations, in which the sample vessel is received by a holder at a different angle relative to a magnetic actuator.

[0059] The rotatable magnet 402 is generally cylindrical, with a longitudinal aperture along its central axis for mounting to the shaft 406. Each magnetic pole of the rotatable magnet 402 forms a hemicyfindrical region, such that a cross-section of the magnet taken perpendicular to the shaft 406 (e.g., as shown in Fig. 3) reveals a semicircular north pole region and a semicircular south pole region. As the magnet 402 rotates in use, the magnetic field generated by the magnet 402 rotates accordingly, and the north pole and south pole therefore alternately face the sample vessel 300. Of course, it will be appreciated that the rotatable magnet 402 may be provided in any suitable shape or configuration in which the poles of the magnet change position about the rotation axis of the magnet in use in order to generate a moving magnetic field.

[0060] Fig. 3 is a cross-section view through the sample treatment system 100, showing a treatment body 500 within the sample vessel 300. In Fig. 3, the sample vessel 300 and the magnetic actuator 400 are arranged in a first orientation, wherein the sample vessel 300 is perpendicular to a rotation axis of the magnet 402. A second orientation, wherein the sample vessel 300 is parallel to the rotation axis of the magnet 402, is described below with respect to Fig. 4. Components of the magnetic actuator 400 are supported from a framework 216 which is housed within the main body 202 of the sample treatment apparatus 200.

[0061] As explained above, in this example the sample vessel 300 is a syringe, comprising a barrel 302 and a plunger 304. When the sample vessel 300 is used with the treatment apparatus 200, a cap 306 is placed over the open end of the sample vessel 300 to ensure that there is no leakage of the sample and buffer solution from the barrel 302.

[0062] As well as a sample to be treated, the barrel 302 contains a treatment body 500. The treatment body 500 comprises a magnet 502 which is encased within a substantially elongate housing 504. The treatment body 500 is described below with respect to Fig. 5, but it will be appreciated that other forms of treatment body may also be used, such as those described in relation to Figs. 6 or 7. The magnet 502 is substantially cubic, with the major poles (north and south poles) therefore being aligned with the longitudinal axis of the treatment body 500. The major poles are shown as differently shaded areas of the magnet 502 in Fig. 3. As the magnet 502 is cubic, the magnetic field which is provided is not symmetrical about the treatment body 500, in particular in the radial direction, allowing the treatment body 500 to be moved in different modes and in combined modes as described below. Although the magnet 502 is described as cubic, in other examples the magnet 502 may be any suitable rectangular prism shape. The magnet 502 may also be provided as a cylinder, in some examples. The magnet 502 may also be provided with its major poles at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the treatment body 500. The treatment body 500 is moveable within the barrel 302 of the sample vessel 300, and rotation of the magnet 402 on the shaft 406 causes a moving magnetic field which manipulates the treatment body 500 by acting on the magnet 502 thereof [0062] The relative orientation of the sample vessel 300, and the treatment body 500, relative to the magnetic actuator 400 shown in Figs. 2 and 3 provides a first operation mode of the sample treatment apparatus 200. When the magnetic actuator 400 is switched on, the magnet 402 rotates to provide a rotating magnetic field. This moving magnetic field manipulates the treatment body 500, causing it to move back and forth longitudinally within the sample vessel 300. The oscillation frequency of the treatment body 500 within the sample vessel 300 is linked to the rotation frequency of the magnet 402. As the treatment body 500 moves through the sample in the sample vessel 300 in this manner, it provides a first mode of sample treatment, which can homogenise the sample. The oscillating motion of the treatment body 500 may be configured such that the treatment body 500 repeatedly strikes end faces of the sample vessel 300 (e.g., a tip of a syringe barrel and an end face of a syringe plunger) to crush and break up the sample Of the sample comprises solid material). Alternatively, the oscillating motion of the treatment body 500 may not strike end faces of the sample vessel, but may rely on mastication of the sample by the fins as described below. As described above, the sample vessel 300 is held at an actuate angle relative to a base portion of the treatment apparatus 200, and so gravity also assists the operation of the sample treatment system 100 in this mode by providing an additional force for moving the treatment body 500 towards the lower end of the sample vessel 300.

[0063] Fig. 4 is a second cross-section view through the sample treatment system 100, wherein the sample vessel 300 is received by the holder 204 in a second orientation relative to the magnetic actuator 400. In particular, as shown in Fig 4, the sample vessel 300 is parallel to the axis of rotation of the magnet 402 (that is, parallel to the shaft 406). Such an orientation provides a second mode of sample treatment.

[0064] When the magnetic actuator 400 is switched on, the magnet 402 rotates to provide a rotating magnetic field, as before. However, due to the relative orientation of the treatment body 500 within the sample vessel 300, in this operating mode the treatment body 500 does not move longitudinally within the barrel 302, but spins about its longitudinal axis. As the treatment body 500 moves through the sample in the sample vessel 300 in this manner, it provides a second sample treatment mode by mixing or blending the sample, and homogenisation is less pronounced. In examples where the treatment body comprises recesses for cavitation (as shown below), heat build up and cavitation can be more intense, which is more effective for lysing microorganisms. In examples where the treatment body comprises one or more fins on an outer surface (as shown below), in this rotational mode the gap between the fins and the vessel wall becomes important, as the size of the gap can affect shear forces in that region and thus microbial and/or cell lysis.

[0065] As suggested above, in other examples of the invention, the sample vessel 300 may be provided at other orientations relative to the magnetic actuator. This may provide different sample treatment effects to those described above. In one particular example, the sample vessel may be provided at an acute angle relative to the magnetic actuator, between the two positions shown in Figs. 3 and 4. In such an orientation, the sample treatment system 100 may provided a 'blended' sample treatment effect, in which the treatment body 500 is manipulated by the moving magnetic field to both oscillate longitudinally and spin about its longitudinal axis within the barrel 302. Such operation is aided by the asymmetrical nature of the magnetic field about the treatment body 500 due to the shape of the magnet 502 as described above. It will also be appreciated that the degree of blending between the two operation modes may be affected by the relative angle between the sample vessel and the magnetic actuator, for example, and so providing the sample vessel at an angle which is substantially perpendicular to or substantially parallel to the magnetic actuator may provide operation mostly in one mode and partially in a second mode.

[0066] An example operation protocol for the sample treatment system 100 will now be described, with reference to Figs. 1 to 4.

[0067] In a first step, the plunger 304 may be removed from the barrel 302 of the syringe 300, allowing the sample to be treated to be deposited into the barrel 302 along with the treatment body 500.

[0068] The plunger 304 is reintroduced into the barrel 302, and is used to draw a liquid (e.g., a chemical lysis buffer) into the barrel 302 with the sample and the treatment body 500. The liquid which is drawn up may be a non-Newtonian fluid, or a hydrogel, for example. The sample vessel 300 is then capped with the cap 306.A needle (either plastic or metal, for example) may be used to aid with drawing up, and later dispensing, the liquid.

[0069] To begin treatment of the sample, the sample vessel 300 is placed into the holder 204 in a first position, wherein the sample vessel 300 is perpendicular to the magnetic actuator 400 as shown in Figs. 1-3. After closing the lid 206 to secure the sample vessel 300 in the holder 204, the magnetic actuator 400 is switched on, and operated in the low speed' mode using the power switch 212 and the control knob 214. This activates the motor 404, for rotating the magnet 402 at a relatively low speed, such as 500 rpm. In this way, the treatment body 500 oscillates back-and-forth longitudinally through the sample within the sample vessel 300 homogenising and liquefying the sample.

[0070] One the sample has been homogenised, the sample vessel 300 is removed and replaced in the holder 204 in the second orientation, wherein the sample vessel 300 is parallel to the magnetic actuator 400, as shown in Fig. 4. After closing the lid 206 to secure the sample vessel 300 in the holder 204, the magnetic actuator 400 is switched on, and operated in the 'high speed' mode using the power switch 212 and the control knob 214. This activates the motor 404, for rotating the magnet 402 at a relatively high speed, such as 5000 rpm. In this way, the treatment body 500 spins through the sample within the sample vessel 300, mixing and blending the sample.

[0071] Once this second stage is complete, and the sample treatment is completed, the sample vessel 300 is remove from the holder 204 and uncapped, and the liquid is deposited, using the plunger 304, out of the sample vessel 300 into any suitable downstream application (e.g., nucleic acid purification). A filter and/or needle may be connected to the sample vessel 300 prior to expelling the liquid sample.

[0072] The sample treatment system 100 thereby provides improved sample treatment, allowing multiple sample treatment modalities to be performed with a single device.

[0073] Fig. 5 shows a perspective view, a side view, and a cross section of the treatment body 500, which is used for mechanism agitation of a sample in a sample vessel (e.g., the sample vessel 300 as shown in Figs. 1 to 4) as described above.

[0074] The treatment body 500 is substantially elongate and generally cylindrical, with an outer diameter configured to fit within a sample vessel and allow space between the outer surface of the treatment body 500 and the inner surface of the sample vessel to allow the treatment body 500 to move through the sample, and the sample to flow around the treatment body 500 when sample treatment is being performed. Of course, it will be appreciated that the treatment body 500 may have other shapes in other embodiments.

[0075] The treatment body 500 comprises a magnet 502, which is encased within a housing 504 as described above. In this example, the housing is provided in two halves 504a, 504b made of a plastic material which are fitted over the magnet 502 and adhered together (e.g., by ultrasonic welding or the like). However, it will be appreciated that, in other examples, the treatment body itself is magnetic and so no housing is required.

[0076] On an outer surface, the treatment body 500 comprises a plurality of fins 506a, 506b, 506c which extend along the longitudinal face of the treatment body 500. Each fin 506a, 506b, 506c is a ridge which follows a generally helical path about the treatment body 500, and the fins 506a, 506b, 506c are equidistantly spaced circumferentially about the treatment body 500. The fins 506a, 506b, 506c help to space the treatment body 500 away from sidewalls of the sample vessel in use, providing a flow path for fluid around the treatment body 500 as the treatment body 500 moves through a sample. Spacing the treatment body 500 away from a sidewall of the vessel may also reduce friction of the treatment body 500 against the vessel wall (by reducing any contact area with the vessel wall). The fins 506a, 506b, 506c also help to mix a sample in certain treatment modes (e.g., when the treatment body 500 spins, as described above), and help to break down a tissue by acting like blades in certain treatment modes (e.g., when the treatment body 500 moves longitudinally within a sample vessel as described above). This mixing effect is enhanced by the helical curve of the fins 506a, 506b, 506b, as when the treatment body 500 moves within the sample vessel, the sample is forced to flow helically about the treatment body 500. This also helps the treatment body 500 to provide a stirring effect when it is moved longitudinally through the sample vessel in a homogenisation mode as described above.

[0077] As the treatment body 500 is narrow compared with the sample vessel, there is a rocking motion of the treatment body 500 as moves longitudinally within the sample vessel. This rocking motion is enhanced by the helical arrangement of the fins 506a, 506b, 506c which introduce a curved shape to the profile of the treatment body 500. This rocking motion can grind material within the sample against a side wall of the sample vessel, and the fins 506a, 506b, 506c enhance this effect by almost cutting tissue (where present in the sample).

[0078] In other examples, a treatment body may be provided as a elongate prism shape or the like, wherein longitudinal edges of the prism shape may provide such fins.

[0079] As a treatment body moves through a sample, heat is also generated which can provide its own treatment effect. Fig. 6 shows a perspective view, a side view, and a cross section of a second treatment body 600 which is configured to provide additional sample heating when in use. This treatment body 600 may thereby also be used to provide an additional sample treatment mode of sample heating, which may be used to provide, for example, enzyme activation or deactivation. The treatment body 600 comprises many similar features as the treatment body 500 described with respect to Fig. 5, and so like reference numerals are used for those features.

[0080] As in the example described above with respect to Fig. 5, the treatment body 600 comprises a magnet 602 encases within a housing 604 formed of two halves 604a, 604b which are fixed together. An outer surface of the treatment body 600 comprises a plurality of fins 605a, 605b, 605c.

[0081] In this example, the treatment body 600 also comprises a plurality of recesses 608a, 608b into an outer surface thereof for encouraging cavitation (particularly, hydrodynamic cavitation) in a sample, as the treatment body moves through the sample within a sample vessel. As shown in Fig. 6, the recesses 608a, 608b are provided in a longitudinal face of the treatment body 600 (e.g., recess 608a) and also in end faces of the treatment body 600 (e.g., recess 608b). However, it will be appreciated that in other examples a treatment body may comprise such recesses in only one side thereof, for example. In other examples, a fin may be provided with such a recess.

[0082] As the treatment body 600 moves through a sample (e.g., moving either longitudinally or spinning about its longitudinal axis within a sample vessel as described above), the recesses 608a, 608b, provide nucleation points leading to hydrodynamic cavitation in the sample. This introduces thermal energy into the sample, thereby providing an additional sample treatment mode via sample heating. This may be used for enzyme activation or deactivation, for example, as well as allowing the treatment body 600 to be used for lysing microorganisms in addition to further breaking down and homogenising tissue.

[0083] Fig. 7 is a view of a treatment body 700 that is another example of the present invention. Fig. 8 shows a view of this treatment body 700 in a sample vessel 300. The treatment body 700 is generally the same as the examples described above with respect to Figs. 5 and 6. However, in this example, the end face of the treatment body 700 comprises three protrusions 710a, 710b, 710c extending therefrom. These protrusions 710a, 710b, 710c are spaced apart from one another circumferentially about the outer edge of the end face of the treatment body 700, thereby providing castellations. The protrusions 710a, 710b, 710c help to break down tissue in the sample when the treatment body 700 is moved longitudinally within a sample vessel, for example in a homogenisation mode as described above.

[0084] When the sample is dispensed from the sample vessel 300 after treatment by depressing the plunger 304 (as indicated by arrow 1001), the treatment body 700 is pushed towards a longitudinal end of the barrel 302. The protrusions 710a, 710b, 710c provide a fluid flow path about the treatment body 700 such that the sample is able to pass around the treatment body 700 and out of the sample vessel 300, as indicated by arrow 1002.

[0085] Fig. 9 shows a transparent side view of a treatment body 900 that is another example of the present invention. In this example, the outer surface of the treatment body 900 does not comprise a fin or a recess, but the treatment body 900 does comprise a magnet 904. The treatment body 900 is particularly adapted for use within a syringe (e.g., as shown in Fig. 8). In particular, a first end face 906 of the treatment body 900 is concave to be congruent with a surface of the plunger 304 and so increase efficacy in grinding any tissue present in the sample against the surface of the plunger 304. Similarly, a second end face 908 is convex to be congruent with an end surface of the barrel of the syringe. It will be appreciated that, in other examples, both ends could be the same shape (e.g., both convex, or both concave), or one end face may be flat and the other end face shaped (e.g., concave or convex).

[0086] Fig. 10 shows a perspective view of a treatment body 1000 that is another example of the present invention. In this example, the treatment body 1000 is particularly adapted for use with samples which comprise solid material, such as tissue or the like. Specifically, the treatment body 1000 comprises a plurality of conical protrusions 1002 extending from each end face which are provided to crush and break tissue against end faces of the sample vessel. The treatment body 1000 also comprises a plurality of fins 1004 extending along the longitudinal face of the treatment body 1000 for mixing, masticating, and cutting tissue as the treatment body 1000 moves within a sample vessel. As shown in Fig. 10, the treatment body 1000 is provided generally as two halves with a recess 1006 therebetween, which may be used as a slot for introducing glue or other adhesive to adhere the two halves together about a magnet, for example.

[0087] Fig. 11 shows a perspective view of a treatment body 1100 that is another example of the present invention. In this example, the treatment body 1100 is provided in the form of an elongate twisted prism, wherein edges 1102 of the twisted prism shape provide helical fins extending along the treatment body 1100, providing the same effect as helical fins as described above.

[0088] Fig. 12 shows a cross-section view of a treatment body 1200 that is another example of the present invention. In this example, the treatment body 1200 comprises a housing 1202 which encases a magnet 1204. In particular, the magnet 1204 is a cuboidal magnet (similar to that described above), but in this example the poles of magnet 1204 are not aligned with the longitudinal axis of the housing 1202. Instead, the magnet 1204 is arranged at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the housing. This may enhance the efficacy of a blended operation mode as described above.

[0089] Fig. 13 shows a cross-section view of a treatment body 1300 that is another example of the present invention. In this example, the treatment body 1300 comprises a housing 1302 which encases a magnet 1304. In particular, the magnet 1304 is a cylindrical magnet. The poles of magnet 1304 are not aligned with the longitudinal axis of the housing 1302, but the magnet 1304 is arranged at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the housing. This allows the cylindrical magnet 1304 to be used to provide an asymmetrical magnetic field about the treatment body 1300 such that the treatment body 1300 can be used in blended operation modes as described herein.

[0090] Fig. 14 shows a perspective view of a sample vessel 1400 which may be used in examples of the present invention. In this example, the sample vessel 1400 is a syringe comprising a barrel 1402 with a plunger 1404 disposed therein. A filter 1406 is connected to the barrel 1402, via a luer lock fitting or the like. The broad cross-sectional area and diameter of the filter 1406 can provide an increased filtration speed and capacity. The filter 1406 may be used to separate unwanted material from the sample after treatment as the sample is dispensed from the sample vessel 1400.

[0091] Fig. 15 shows a perspective view of a sample vessel 1500 which may be used in examples of the present invention. In this example, the sample vessel 1500 is a syringe comprising a barrel 1502 with a plunger 1504 disposed therein. A filter 1506 is connected to the barrel 1502, via a luer lock fitting or the like. In this example the filter 1506 comprises a silica material or other configured for capturing a predetermined target molecule, such as a nucleic acid or a protein, as the sample is dispensed from the sample vessel 1500 after treatment.

[0092] The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or in the following claims, or in the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for obtaining the disclosed results, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

[0093] While the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0094] For the avoidance of any doubt, any theoretical explanations provided herein are provided for the purposes of improving the understanding of a reader. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations.

[0095] Any section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

[0096] Throughout this specification, including the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" and "include", and variations such as "comprises", "comprising", and "including" will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0097] It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" one particular value, and/or to "about" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by the use of the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. The term "about" in relation to a numerical value is optional and means for example +/-10%.

Claims

1. CLAIMS1. A sample treatment apparatus comprising: a holder configured to receive a sample vessel containing a treatment body; and a magnetic actuator configured to generate a moving magnetic field for manipulating the treatment body.

2. A sample treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic actuator comprises a rotatable magnet.

3. A sample treatment apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a motor for rotating the rotatable magnet.

4. A sample treatment apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the sample treatment apparatus is configured to position the sample vessel in at least one of: a first orientation wherein the sample vessel is received by the holder at a first angle relative to the magnetic actuator; and a second orientation wherein the sample vessel is received by the holder at a second angle relative to the magnetic actuator.

5. A sample treatment apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the sample treatment apparatus is configured to receive the sample vessel by the holder at any angle relative to the magnetic actuator between the first orientation and the second orientation.

6. A sample treatment apparatus according to any preceding claim, further comprising a main body for housing the magnetic actuator, the holder being disposed on an external face of the main body, and the main body being configured such that the external face is at an acute angle relative to a surface upon which the main body is supported.

7. A sample treatment apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the main body comprises an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the acute angle.

8. A sample treatment apparatus according to any preceding claim, further comprising any one or more of: a plurality of holders; a heating element for heating a sample; and a sonicator for agitating a sample.

9. A treatment body for mechanical agitation of a sample in a sample vessel and suitable for use in a sample treatment apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the treatment body comprises a magnet.

10. A treatment body according to claim 9, wherein the treatment body is substantially elongate and comprises a fin which extends along a longitudinal face of the treatment body for mixing and masticating a sample as the treatment body moves within a sample vessel.

11. A treatment body according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the treatment body comprises a recess into an outer surface thereof for encouraging cavitation in a sample as the treatment body moves within a sample vessel.

12. A treatment body for mechanical agitation of a sample in a sample vessel and suitable for use in a sample treatment apparatus, wherein the treatment body is substantially elongate and comprises a fin which extends along a longitudinal face of the treatment body for mixing and masticating a sample as the treatment body moves within a sample vessel.

13. A treatment body according to claim 12, wherein the treatment body comprises a recess into an outer surface thereof for encouraging cavitation as the treatment body moves through a sample.

14. A treatment body for mechanical agitation of a sample in a sample vessel and suitable for use in a sample treatment apparatus, wherein the treatment body comprises a recess into an outer surface thereof for encouraging cavitation in a sample as the treatment body moves within a sample vessel.

15. A treatment body according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the treatment body comprises a housing which encases the magnet.

16. A treatment body according to any one of claims 9 to 11, or 15, wherein the magnet has a rectangular prism shape.

17. A treatment body according to any one of claims 9 to 11, or 15 to 16, wherein poles of the magnet are aligned at an acute angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the treatment body.

18. A treatment body according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the fin follows a helical path about the treatment body.

19. A treatment body according to any one of claims 10 to 13 or 18, wherein the fin is perforated to encourage cavitation as the treatment body moves through a sample.

20. A treatment body according to any one of claims 10 to 13, 18 or 19, comprising a plurality of fins spaced circumferentially about the treatment body.

21. A treatment body according to any one of claims 11, 13 or 14, wherein the recess is in at least one of a longitudinal face and an end face of the treatment body

22. A treatment body according to any one of claims 8 to 21, wherein the treatment body is substantially cylindrical.

23. A treatment body according to any one of claims 8 to 22, wherein at least one of a longitudinal face and an end face of the treatment body comprises a protrusion.

24. A sample treatment system comprising a treatment body according to any one of claims 8 to 23, and a sample vessel for receiving the treatment body.

25. A sample treatment system according to claim 24, wherein the sample vessel comprises a syringe.

26. A sample treatment system according to claim 24 or 25, wherein the sample vessel comprises a filter.

27. A sample treatment system according to claim 26, wherein the filter is configured to capture a target molecule.

28. A sample treatment system according to any one of claims 24 to 27, further comprising a plurality of homogenization particles.

29. A sample treatment system according to any one of claims 24 to 28 further comprising a sample treatment apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

30. A system for target molecule extraction and/or target molecule detection, the system comprising a sample treatment apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7.