Low molecular weight heparin assay, system and reagent therefor

Abstract

A method, kit, system and reagent for measuring low molecular weight heparin in a whole blood sample is provided which involves the use of a Factor Xa activator, such as Russell's Viper Venom, as the coagulation assay initiator.

1 - 26 . (canceled)  
   
   
       27 . A kit for measuring low molecular weight heparin concentration on a whole blood sample, comprising an element containing at least one dry coagulation assay reagent arranged in a substantially flattened format and containing magnetic particles distributed substantially homogeneously therethrough, wherein said at least one dry coagulation assay reagent comprises a Factor Xa activator.  
   
   
       28 . The kit of  claim 27 , further comprising a transfer pipette.  
   
   
       29 . The kit of  claim 28 , wherein said transfer pipette is made of an essentially nonthrombogenic material, comprises a vented end, is capable of being filled with a liquid sample by capillary action, and is capable of expelling said liquid sample by means of pressure after covering or sealing said vented end.  
   
   
       30 . The kit of  claim 27 , further comprising a timing means.  
   
   
       31 . The kit of  claim 27 , further comprising a permanent magnet.  
   
   
       32 . The kit of  claim 30 , further comprising a transfer pipette.  
   
   
       33 . The kit of  claim 31 , further comprising a transfer pipette.  
   
   
       34 . The kit of  claim 29 , further comprising a timing means.  
   
   
       35 . The kit of  claim 29 , further comprising a permanent magnet.  
   
   
       36 . The kit of  claim 27 , wherein said element comprises a channel structure defining a sample well and reaction volume in fluid communication with each other, said channel structure having a geometry causing a liquid sample placed in said sample well to be drawn into and filling said reaction volume via capillary action.