Importance

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Abstract

A disposable device, a method of sample preparation, and a business method are provided for collecting and preparing a sample for subsequent direct analysis of a particular analyte. The device includes a sampling assembly for collecting a sample, a homogenizing body for comminuting the sample, and a container with a buffer. The homogenizing body has two sites for attachment--one site being attachable to the sampling assembly and the other, being attachable to the container. The device includes a first reagent and a second reagent to facilitate sample preparation, which may respectively be proteinase-K and proteinase-K inhibitor for preparing a sample for analysis of pathogenic prion protein. One embodiment includes a delivery apparatus for dispensing the second reagent into the treated homogenate. The delivery apparatus has a dropper top dispensing component with a pore at a top end, an elongated dispensing member attached inside the dispensing component and terminating in a tip outside the dispensing component, and proteinase-K inhibitor disposed on the tip. In another embodiment, the device comprises a housing defining a recess therein and having at least one opening for collecting a sample, and a sample-reaction zone separated from the recess by a sample-comminution zone. Also provided is method for collecting, comminuting, and optionally treating the homogenized sample to prepare it for direct analysis. Another aspect of the invention is a business method for preparing biological tissue from animals for prion analysis.

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First Claim