Apparatus and method for cell, spore, or virus capture and disruption

Abstract

Embodiments disclose an apparatus and methods for biological sample processing enabling isolation and enrichment of microbial or pathogenic constituents from the sample. A vessel for sample containment and extraction is further disclosed for engagement with a transducer capable of efficient sample disruption and lysis. Together these components provide a convenient and inexpensive solution for rapid sample preparation compatible with downstream analysis techniques.

1 - 16 . (canceled) 
     
     
         17 . A method for biomolecular extraction from a sample, the method comprising:
 a) introducing the sample and one or more fluidic reagents into a sample collector through an inlet portion of the sample collector;   b) positioning the sample collector about an at least partially tapered conical interface of a transducer;   c) generating sonic or ultrasonic energy by the transducer that is propagated into the sample collector through the interface wherein the energy induces cavitation in the one or more fluidic reagents and results in at least partial disruption or lysis of the sample releasing nucleic acids or proteins; and   d) collecting at least a portion of the released nucleic acids or proteins through an outlet portion of the sample collector.   
     
     
         18 . The method of  claim 17 , wherein a portion of the energy induces the released nucleic acids or proteins to pass through the outlet portion of the sample collector. 
     
     
         19 . The method of  claim 18 , wherein the sample collector further comprises a cap that seals the inlet portion of the sample collector and creates positive pressure within the sample collector when the energy is applied forcing the released nucleic acids or proteins to pass through the outlet portion. 
     
     
         20 . The method of  claim 17 , wherein the energy generated by the transducer is less than 50 kHz. 
     
     
         21 . The method of  claim 20 , wherein the energy generated by the transducer is less than 20 kHz. 
     
     
         22 . The method of  claim 17 , wherein the is generated by one or more piezo devices coupled to the transducer. 
     
     
         23 . The method of  claim 17 , wherein the sample comprises cells, spores, or viruses. 
     
     
         24 . The method of  claim 17 , wherein the transducer generates heat and cavitation-inducing energy propagated into the sample collector. 
     
     
         25 . The method of  claim 17 , wherein the transducer comprises a recessed portion in which the interface is disposed, the recessed portion of the transducer receiving at least a portion of the sample collector positioning the interface and sidewall in close proximity to thereby propagate the energy generated by the transducer into the sample collector.