Systems and methods for multi-analysis

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for sample processing. A device may be provided, capable of receiving the sample, and performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing multiple assays. The device may comprise one or more modules that may be capable of performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing the steps using a small volume of sample.

1 - 8 . (canceled) 
     
     
         9 . A method of performing at least one assay on a biological sample from a subject, comprising:
 providing a cartridge;   inserting a first portion of the sample into the cartridge;   inserting a second portion of the sample into the cartridge;   receiving the cartridge and the biological sample in a biological sample processing system, wherein:   a) the cartridge comprises:
 a first channel for holding one of the first portion or the second portion of the sample; 
 a second channel for holding another of the first portion or the second portion of the sample; 
   b) the biological sample processing system comprises:
 a sample handling system; 
 at least two optical detectors; and 
   performing analysis of the biological sample using the biological sample processing system for performing a 5-part leukocyte differential, wherein said performing comprising using at least one of the optical detectors of the biological sample processing system.   
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 9 , wherein the biological sample is a blood sample. 
     
     
         11 . The method of  claim 10 , wherein the blood sample obtained from the subject is about 500 μl or less. 
     
     
         12 . The method of  claim 10 , wherein the blood sample is obtained through a fingerstick wound. 
     
     
         13 . The method of  claim 10 , wherein the blood sample is a plasma sample. 
     
     
         14 . The method of  claim 9 , wherein the biological sample processing system performs two or more assays at least partially in parallel, wherein the two or more assays is selected from the list consisting of: a nucleic acid amplification, immunoassay, and cytometric assay. 
     
     
         15 . The method of  claim 9 , wherein the biological sample processing system further comprises a cytometer. 
     
     
         16 . The method of  claim 9 , wherein the 5-part leukocyte differential comprises determining the number of cells per microliter of blood for the following types of leukocytes: monocytes, lymphocytes, neutrophils, basophils and eosinophils. 
     
     
         17 . The method of  claim 9 , wherein the biological sample processing system further comprises a cartridge and a housing. 
     
     
         18 . The method of  claim 17 , wherein the housing comprises the sample handling system, the thermal control unit, and the at least one detection unit. 
     
     
         19 . The method of  claim 9  further comprising identifying T and B-cell populations in the biological sample. 
     
     
         20 . The method of  claim 9  further comprising determining a hemoglobin assay on the biological assay.