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 . A biological sample processing device comprising:
 a) a sample handling system;   b) a detection station;   c) a cytometry station comprising an imaging device and a stage for receiving a microscopy cuvette; and   d) an assay station configured to support multiple components comprising i) a biological sample and ii) at least a first, a second, and a third fluidically isolated assay unit,   wherein the sample handling system is configured to i) transfer at least a portion of the biological sample to the first assay unit, the second assay unit, and the third assay unit; ii) transfer the first and second assay units containing biological sample to the detection station; and iii) transfer the third assay unit containing biological sample to the cytometry station.   
     
     
         2 - 8 . (canceled) 
     
     
         9 . A method of processing a biological sample, comprising:
 a) introducing a sample into a sample processing device comprising:
 i) a sample handling system; and 
 ii) a centrifuge, wherein the sample comprises bodily fluid at a first concentration; 
   b) with the aid of the sample handling system, introducing at least a portion of the sample into the centrifuge;   c) centrifuging the sample, to generate a centrifuged sample;   d) moving at least one portion of said sample to an inspection station in line-of sight between a camera and a light source of the sample processing device;   e) inspecting the sample in one of said fluidically isolated vessels for sample errors, wherein the inspection station comprises a gap defined between the light source opposing the camera, said gap being sized to receive the at least one of said fluidically isolated vessels;   f) moving the sample in one of said fluidically isolated vessels to an optical detector separate from the camera for detecting optical signals from the sample;   wherein the inspection station is a stand-alone device separate from the optical detector, said inspection station comprising a chassis supporting the camera and light source thereon.   
     
     
         10 . A method of processing a biological sample, comprising:
 a) introducing a sample into a sample processing device comprising:
 i) a sample handling system; and 
 ii) a centrifuge, wherein the sample comprises bodily fluid at a first concentration; 
   b) with the aid of the sample handling system, introducing at least a portion of the sample into the centrifuge;   c) centrifuging the sample, to generate a centrifuged sample; and   e) inspecting the centrifuged sample using a cytometry device in the sample processing device by capturing a plurality of images of the centrifuged sample.